Whistle while you work!

Work plays such a big part in our lives, so it’s no wonder why people living with dementia often think they need to be working. Instead of struggling to explain that they don’t need to be at the office, workshop or school anymore – you can turn it into an activity and engage their enthusiasm practically.

In a 1-to-1 activity, find out what job the person had and create activities around it. For example, get them to sand a block of wood if they’re a carpenter, or encourage them to make notes if they’re a teacher. It’s a nice way to maintain a sense of job role identity.

Have your props at the ready, so you can bring them out at a moment’s notice for as long as they’re engaged