Using “Good Morning” Home Videos To Help Elders With Dementia

Elder Care in Amagansett NY

A few years ago, there was a hit romantic comedy starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore. The movie was called ’50 First Dates,’ with the plot centered around a man dating a woman with short-term memory loss. It was funny and sweet, an instant favorite to many. Now, the movie has inspired a unique type of care at a New York nursing home. In a recent article at Huffington Post, directors for the Hebrew Home at Riverdale discussed how an important element of the film has become a positive lifeline for patients with dementia.

What is it?

Just like the movie, patients wake up to a special, personal video featuring family, friends, and important stories.  The results are encouraging. Charlotte Dell, a director of social services with the facility, says the videos help to set a positive mood for the day. The importance of memory care for loved ones with dementia is well-known. Both professional services and family caregivers are constantly looking for new and creative ways to help improve symptoms in the elderly.

How does it work?

Think of it as a video scrapbook. Relatives contribute their own greetings, stories, and cherished memories for their elderly family member. Anything that they may find meaningful is especially encouraged. Once the video is put together, it is played first thing in the morning. Timing is important, say supporters, as waking up to see and hear people they care about can help set a positive tone for the entire day.

Can a family caregiver use this activity?

This is a perfect supplement to memory care that family caregivers can utilize to make mornings easier. (Morning can often be a trying time of the day.) There is no need for fancy camera set-ups or editing programs. Caregivers can film video participants with a regular home video camera, or even their phones. Editing can be done just as easily. Many home computers actually come with basic video editing software (such as Windows Movie Maker). There are also free or cheap editing software downloads on reputable sites like CNet’s Download.com.

What about home caregiver services?

Family members are encouraged to make the videos, but they can be used by anyone who is caring for an elderly loved one. In fact, it could be a great way to sustain memory care, even on the days that family caregivers can’t be there in person. Being about to see and hear familiar people regularly can improve dementia symptoms all around. Families who use outside home care services should make sure the video is included in their loved one’s routine regardless of who is giving care that day.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional elder care services in Amagansett, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.

Source
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/04/17/dementia-patients-family-video_n_7087352.html
http://download.cnet.com/windows/video-editing-software/