Crafts in home care or live in care support brain health

Engaging in crafts can benefit quality of life at all ages and here we explore the positive impacts particularly for older adults.

Dementia UK agree that engaging in the arts is a powerful tool for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias to express themselves as well as increasing confidence and stimulating the brain.

Increasing coordination and dexterity

Crafts can have physical as well as mental benefits.  Just as we lose mobility when we stop moving our bodies, the increased use of muscles in the arms and hands can maintain and even build muscle strength, or stimulate the learning of new movements.  Older adults with arthritis my worry about pain or fear that their condition becomes worse but the Arthritis Foundation reflects research studies in recommending gentle exercises to increase range of movement and reduce symptoms.

Providing new social interaction

Whilst many craft activities can be practiced alone, this is an area where Home Instead Care Givers can excel, sharing an interest to build their relationships over time.  Also recognised by the Social Prescribing Academy, outside of the home, joining local craft groups can provide even more opportunities to meet with new people and make new friends which in themselves further enhance confidence and self esteem.

Reducing stress

Losing yourself in an activity can have a calming effect and for some is a great way to reduce stress.  Almost like a form of meditation, concentrating on a craft can be a good way to distract yourself from other thoughts which may be causing anxiety, allowing for positive thoughts which grow within the rhythm of repeating simple movements.

Accomplishment and Increased self-esteem

Completing a craft project can give a rare feeling of accomplishment, leaving a long-lasting feeling of happiness and improvement in general mood.  Sharing pride in an achievement and sharing that interest with others and receiving their feedback will always give a reminder of that feeling.