This is a great way to provide some pampering. A manicure complete with a beautiful color can leave someone feeling refreshed and more vibrant.
Give your loved one a manicure.
Nostalgic TV programs and movies with a light snack can be a good way to relax.
Watch one of your loved one's favorite television shows from when they were growing up.
Talking about the past and familiar events with your loved one brings a sense of comfort.
Photo albums or history picture books.
Share favorite memories or look through old pictures together.
Strolling through a garden or creating/tending your own is a great way to engage the sensory system in a soothing way that incorporates smell, sight and touch.
Find a place you know your loved one will enjoy, you can easily find nearby locations on the internet.
Help to guide your loved one around a garden or park.
"Spa Time" is a great way to help your loved one relax, and spend some quality time with you.
Pick and choose your spa supplies based on your choice of spa activities.
Some ideas for "Spa Time" may include playing calming music and having some relaxing lighting (battery operated candles are inexpensive and safe.) Aromatherapy can also provide a tranquil sensory experience, lavender: rose, lemon and vanilla are popular scents. Arm, hand and scalp massages are excellent as well. Another popular idea is a foot soak in warm, scented water, followed by a gentle foot massage.
A "Quiet Room" is a great place for your loved one to spend some downtime in a relaxed atmosphere.
Instructions:
Designate a room or space with bright light and minimal sensory distractions. Perhaps calm music or a puzzle can be brought into this space.
A hand massage using a little lotion with a favorite or relaxing scent is a simple way to connect and reduce tension.
Hand lotion. (An example of a complete Hand and Foot Lotion kit.)
Gently rub your loved one's hands. Be sure to be very soft in your pressure. Hand lotion can help.