Meaningful activities fill our lives with joy and a sense of purpose. It makes us feel useful and gives us a feeling of pride that we look forward to when we accomplish certain tasks. It feels good to know that you are accomplishing something beneficial to yourself or even to others. This desire to do something meaningful has led to people creating non-profit organizations, creating artwork, enrolling in research studies, and so much more! The list is endless! Our desire to do something meaningful makes the world a more colorful and exciting place.

For many individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, meaningful tasks and activities may be critical for feeling a sense of meaning in life. As the disease progresses, most individuals can’t complete the basic or meaningful tasks they used to. They become more reliant on others to help them navigate life. Instead of feeling like they add meaning to the world, many individuals with Alzheimer’s disease can feel like they are a burden. They may feel lonely and unworthy as they lose connections and relationships that once added comfort and substance to their lives. This can result in feelings of depression and loneliness and/or lead to behavioral changes like restlessness and irritability.

Caregivers and loved ones are often looking for ways to involve seniors with Alzheimer’s disease in activities and tasks. Thankfully there are plenty of activities that can ignite feelings of self-worth and joy, for people with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones.

Here are a few of our favorite meaningful activities for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease:

1. Pets. Many pet owners can tell you that their pet adds purpose to their life. A pet can be a bird, a cat, or a goldfish but all of them rely on someone to feed and cater to their needs. Pets are also great companions throughout the day which can provide comfort. Having a pet may not be feasible for some people so another option could be to visit or volunteer at a local animal shelter to observe the caretakers and pet the animals.

2. Chores. Tasks as simple as sweeping and dusting can add a sense of purpose. Many chores give an instant sense of accomplishment after finishing the task. And as many of us know, chores never seem to end. There is always a chore that can be completed daily so it won’t take much searching to find a meaningful chore to incorporate into a daily routine.

3. Gardening. This activity is enjoyed by people across all age groups and is a smart way to incorporate a small amount of exercise and a daily routine. The activity may be adding a certain amount of water each day or looking through a seed catalog to pick a new plant. Watching a plant grow and bloom flowers or produce fruit can add a great sense of joy and purpose to someone’s day. Start a small garden patch in the yard or grab an indoor potted plant for a simpler start.

4. Shopping. Like gardening, a shopping trip is a smart way to incorporate exercise into a meaningful activity. Make shopping a meaningful activity by using a shopping list that can be checked off throughout the trip, placing items into a basket or cart, and/or working together to bring items inside and put them away.

5. Involve children. Caretaking involves several meaningful activities and your loved one may feel joy by participating. For example, have them sit and listen while your child practices reading, reciting a speech, or playing an instrument. If your loved one lives with their grandchildren, they could wait for them when they get on and off the school bus. Other ideas include playing board games together, working on puzzles, and attending events for school and extracurricular activities.

We hope you find these ideas helpful and are excited to try one or all of them soon. The PAAD2 team wishes you all the best as you try them out. If they inspire you with other ideas, reach out to us on Facebook and let us know so we can spread the word!