Momentos

SENSORY

SIGHT
Things to look at, Things I like to look at, or Things that bring me calm to watch
(Visual Stimulation)-Vision is one of the most important senses which helps us gain an excessive amount of information. Tragically, Alzheimer’s and different dementias can significantly affect the visual processing system.

Consider:
• Bright light therapy
• Favorite Movies
• Videos (i.e. soothing nature, travel, or favorite animals)
• Photos

SMELL
Soothing & Familiar Scents
(Olfactory Stimulation)-Some of our grounded memories, our most strong affiliations, are activated by smell. A scent you connect with an occasion or a moment from the past that will transport one to that time.

Consider:
• Essential oils as part of aromatherapy (peppermint, lavender, rosemary)
• Sachets of cinnamon, cloves, thyme, basil and others
• Herb garden

SOUND
Soothing & Familiar Sounds/Things I like to listen to and hear
(Auditory Stimulation)-Useful for mood enhancement, cognition and relaxation

Consider:
• Music (relaxing, favorite songs)
• Musical instruments or wind chimes
• Natural sounds like a waterfall or gentle rainfall
• Talking Tile—familiar voice, gentle reminder from family member
• Poems, proverbs, limericks, tongue twisters, and rhymed nursery rhymes

TOUCH
Things to touch & feel, fidget with, keep my hands busy
(Tactile Stimulation)-Awareness of texture and touch
A study by the American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease and other Dementia states that tactile stimulation improves the well-being of Dementia patients

Consider:
• Hand massage & nail care
• Beauty products for a spa day
• Soft fabrics like fur, felt, or sequins to stroke or things to squeeze
• A virtual beach: Sand & shells/stones
• Realistic stuffed animals to pet and hold
• Seed packets for reminiscing or planting