One of the challenges that seniors face living at home is staying physically and mentally active. Activity is essential for the body and the mind. But when seniors spend too much time alone, their physical and mental health can suffer because they’re not getting the socialization and activity they need for good health.
If you can’t visit your senior parent every day to help them socialize, companion care at home is a great solution. Companion care at home is a specialized kind of home care for seniors where your senior parent will get social visits from a care provider who is there to spend quality time with them.
A companion care at home provider can encourage your senior parent to try easy physical activities like chair exercises, as well as encourage them to play games and do puzzles for better cognitive health. Some of the activities that companions encourage seniors to do are:
Balloon Volleyball
Balloon volleyball is a fun and easy way for seniors to move their bodies without too much strain. The companion care at home caregiver can toss a balloon back and forth with your parent while they sit or stand. It helps with hand-eye coordination, balance, and reaction time.
Because balloons are light and slow, the game is gentle and safe for seniors, even those with limited movement.
Occupational Therapy Exercises
A companion care at home provider can help your parent do simple occupational therapy exercises. These are movements designed to improve strength, flexibility, and daily function. Exercises may include squeezing a stress ball, lifting light weights, or stretching arms and legs.
A caregiver can guide them through each move safely and cheer them on for motivation. These exercises are helpful for staying strong and independent.
Bean Bag Toss
Bean bag toss is another fun and low-impact game. The senior can sit in a chair and try to toss bean bags into a bucket or onto a board with holes. This game helps with aim, focus, and arm movement. It also brings laughter and a sense of accomplishment.
The caregiver can keep score to make it more exciting or just enjoy it casually.
Reading Aloud or Listening to Audiobooks
Reading is a great way to keep the mind sharp and relaxed. A companion care at home provider can read aloud to your parent if their vision makes reading hard. They can take turns reading stories, news articles, or even favorite poems.
If your parent prefers, the caregiver can help them listen to audiobooks instead. Listening to books helps pass the time in a calm and enjoyable way.
Simple Arts and Crafts
Creative activities like coloring, painting, or making greeting cards are enjoyable and calming. A companion care at home caregiver can set up supplies and sit with your parent to work on a craft together.
These activities improve hand control and give a sense of purpose. Finished crafts can be shared with friends or family as gifts or decorations.
Music and Singing
Music brings joy and can lift anyone’s mood. The companion care at home caregiver can play favorite songs, sing along, or even do a little dancing if your parent is up for it. Music can also bring back memories and help with relaxation.
Some seniors enjoy tapping along with a beat or using simple instruments like shakers or bells.
If you or someone you know needs Companion Care at Home in Fairmont, MN, contact Adara Home Health. We provide quality and affordable home care services for many fragile or senior members in the communities we serve. Call us at (888) 525-7742 for more information.