Staying mentally and physically active can slow memory loss, preserve independence, reduce anxiety, aggression, repetitive questioning, and sleep disturbances. There are four types of activities that benefit someone with Alzheimer's
- Activities that make people feel useful
- Activities that make people feel happy
- Activities that make people feel self-sufficient
- Activities that make people feel refreshed
What Caregivers Can Do
Plan Activities That Make People Feel Useful
Productive activities make people feel that who they are and what they can do still has value. Recognize participation over perfection.
Examples: sorting, folding, gardening, organizing.
Plan Activities That Make People Feel Happy
Fun activities boost energy levels and reduce stress. They work best incorporating personal preferences and capabilities, and can be passive or active.
Examples: crafts, reading, singing, dancing.
Plan Activities That Make People Feel Self-Sufficient
Independent activities make people feel capable. Helping people with Alzheimer’s help themselves creates a sense of control.
Examples: grooming, making the bed, getting up, walking.
Plan Activities That Make People Feel Refreshed
Restorative activities raise people’s spirits. More than sleep, these activities recharge their batteries and make them feel refreshed.
Examples: time alone, time with others, nature walks, listening to music.
Medication Side Effects That Can Hinder Activities
Medication side effects can make someone with Alzheimer's not want to engage in any activities. Monitor your loved one for medication side effects — especially if they are unable to communicate how they feel after taking them. If you think your loved is experiencing medication side effects, contact your doctor. Ask if the dose can be changed/lowered, or if the side effects are outweighing the benefits?
Remember: there is no medication that cures Alzheimer's.
Below are the most commonly prescribed Alzheimer's medications, along with the documented side effects that could make someone with Alzheimer's avoid activities.
| Brand Names | Drug Name | Side Effects | Approved |
For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aricept,Adlarity | Donepezil | Common side effects include: nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, appetite changes, insomnia, headaches, muscle cramps, skin issues.
Less common side effects include: Rare side effects include: |
1996 |
Mild, Moderate, Severe AD |
| Exelon | Rivastigmine | Common side effects include: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite/weight loss, diarrhea, weakness, dizziness, drowsiness, and shakiness (tremor).
Rare side effects include: |
1997 | Mild – Moderate AD |
| Razadyne | Galantamine | Less common side effects include: discouragement, feeling sad or empty, general feeling of discomfort or illness, irritability, loss of interest or pleasure, trouble concentrating. |
2001 | Mild – Moderate AD |
| Namenda | Memantine | More common side effects include: confusion.
Less common side effects include: |
2003 | Moderate – Severe AD |
