Game Day fun for seniors with Dementia

​The Super Bowl is now in its 56th year. The game takes place Sunday, February 13 th in Inglewood, California and it likely will spark memories of past experiences for seniors. Football has come a long way in the past 50 years. But one thing hasn’t changed, the fans are passionate about their favorite team through wins and losses. The team at our luxury senior housing community in Lake in the Hills has a game plan to make the celebration memorable and stress free for seniors living with dementia. 

Guests ListFirst of all, keep the guest list simple. Invite guests who are willing to be sensitive to your loved one’s needs. Think about a handful of family or friend football fans that can watch the game without any shouting. The sudden sounds might startle or make a sensitive senior feel uncomfortable. Encourage your guests to wear their favorite jersey or football team gear, even if they aren’t playing in the big game. It's also important to reduce the spread of COVID, wearing game-themed masks and ensuring everyone is vaccinated and tests negative before gathering is key.

Shake your pom poms
​Pom poms make the perfect Super Bowl party gift for seniors and their guests to enjoy. Shake them when the team you are rooting for makes a great move, instead of screaming. Seniors will benefit from using their motor skills to hold the handles and shake them too. Pom poms are stimulating and fun for football fans of all ages.
 
Halftime fun
The Super Bowl halftime show might not be the type of music your senior loved one prefers. This year, a group of hip hop artists will take center stage. We suggest you put on a halftime show of your own!
Seniors can stay in their seats or get up move around. Do light exercises and stretches to your senior’s favorite upbeat music. Halftime is also the perfect time to remind your loved one to take a restroom break.

Super Snacks
Super Bowl snacks score big at Melody Living Lake in the Hills’ memory care community! Choose foods that are familiar to your senior loved ones. Prepare dishes as small bites that are easy to eat. Assign someone to make your loved one a plate and get them a drink to enjoy.
 
Health experts believe watching football can bring physical wellness to fans. Studies determined watching four quarters is equivalent to a moderate cardiovascular workout, like a brisk walk. Studies also show a boost in your emotional wellness when your team takes over on the scoreboard.
 
Our beloved Chicago Bears may not be in the big game this year, but there are still plenty of reasons to be together and enjoy a great American tradition. To learn more about our engaging community calendar, feel free to give us a call at 847.957.7070.