Q: Could you suggest some activities for my parents? Both have early stage dementia although their overall physical health is good. I take care of them most days (we have someone who stays with them from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. through the week and family members take turns on the week-ends). They seem not to mind just sitting and watching television but I feel as if I should be doing more for them to keep their bodies and minds active.

A: Good for you! Our loved ones living with dementia will indeed benefit from stimulating activities – but so will you. Research has shown that when these take place, feelings of agitation are decreased while a sense of purpose is increased. Undesirable behaviors such as wandering may also be reduced and activity during the day promotes better sleep at night.

Although people with memory loss and other signs of cognitive decline often seem to lose interest in former activities, with a little creative planning it is possible to pique their curiosity once again.

What activities have your parents enjoyed in the past that could be modified to meet their current needs? Try any and everything you think they may enjoy and can do safely. Your goal should be to provide stimulation that is also pleasurable.

If art was a previous interest, provide craft supplies. Your mom and dad could design greeting cards for family and friends or fashion holiday decorations. Someone who was an avid gardener may enjoy tending a container garden. Do not underestimate abilities; they may still be able to play card or board games and you will never know unless you let them try. So what if they come up with their own rules? Doing simple exercises, putting together puzzles, listening to music and reading are other good options.

Try stirring memories by recalling stories from your childhood. Ask specific questions and do not hurry the answers. Bring out a box of old family photos and suggest your parents put them in a photo album.

Keep in mind that meaningful activities, as opposed to “busy” ones, may be more effective. Although you will want to encourage your parents to participate in the events you plan, it is best not to require they take part. When you try something new, always observe so you can intervene in case they become too frustrated.

You should also consider the benefits of maintaining an environment that is stimulating to the senses; when our senses are stimulated, so is our brain. Pleasant surroundings that can be seen, heard, smelled, tasted and felt can provide joy in the present, because joy does not depend on memory. Take care to make your parent’s home clean, uncluttered, and attractive in appearance. Provide their favorite music as an alternative to the droning television. Make sure the house smells clean and fresh and take necessary steps to eliminate any offensive odors. Plan meals that will appeal to their taste buds. Tactile stimulation occurs when we touch or are touched, so make sure clothes and linens feel soft and comfortable.

And of course, human touch is the most pleasurable form of tactile stimulation; always take time to show affection with lots of hugs and kisses.