One of the things we know about individuals living with dementia is that, while familiarity and routine are important, introducing some variety into their day raise their levels of awareness and even spark a memory or two.
That may be part of the reason why the residents at Highline Place Memory Care in Littleton, Colorado are still raving about a recent visit from their local motorcycle club. Now that’s what we call adding some variety into your day!
The local club partnered with staff at Highline Place to throw a fun party, bikes included. Everyone got into the swing of it, with hand painted tattoos (to channel the ‘biker babes and dudes’), music and lots of motorcycle stunts performed outside in front of a cheering group of residents and staff. The event drew the attention of local Denver CBS Channel 4, bringing their cameras on site to film some of the action, as seen below:
Before the bikers arrives, reporters from Channel 4 asked community relations director, Shayla Davis, what prompted the special gathering. “Our residents have an adventurous spirit and they are energized by new experiences,” she said. “We think the bikers will be impressed by their ability to party.”
And they were!
Don’t be afraid to sprinkle some variety into the daily routine of your loved one who is challenged with dementia. While it’s important to keep them safe and comfortable, you’ll find the change of pace to be refreshing and energizing for them. And you’ll enjoy it as well.