Low Functioning Activities for the Elderly

Finding activities to do with low functioning elderly people can be difficult and often requires thought and effort in planning. However, having structured activities can help elderly people become engaged, active and find purpose in their daily lives. There are many activities that can be done with low functioning elderly people, although they need to be adapted to the individual's level of functioning, and may require additional support and extra encouragement.

Remembering Activities

• For older people with memory problems, such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease, remembering activities can be a helpful way to keep the brain active, boost memory and encourage positive mood. Memory activities can include having open discussions with groups of elderly people about their past, or asking specific questions aimed to help group members to remember. Other activities can include listening to music or watching television and recalling stories connected to specific songs or shows. Using items from the past can also evoke memories; this can include using pictures or old magazines.

Meaningful Activities

• Activities that focus around the person's past interests and hobbies can have a lot of meaning for an elderly person. These activities will vary, but most can be adapted to help the person to participate, no matter what her current ability level. For instance, if she used to be an avid gardener, she can be assisted by another person to sit in the garden and plant. If this is too strenuous, pots may be brought indoors, and she can plant seeds with assistance.

Establish Routines

• Routines can help to organize a person's day and give a sense of purpose. An elderly person may have lost an old routine and may feel comfort in reestablishing it. Simple routines such as daily chores can be used, for instance taking out the garbage or folding laundry. If the elderly person is unable to do this on his own, gentle assistance and encouragement can help bring the task to the person's current ability level.

Social Activities

• Staying active can be beneficial to elderly people. For instance, activities that involve socializing can help to fight depression and stress, and also help boost memory. Even elderly people with advanced Alzheimer's disease and those considered low functioning still need to socialize. This can be done either through simply taking the person to the store, for a walk or to a local senior center for activities.