Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It slowly destroys memory, thinking skills, and eventually the ability to carry out daily activities. As the disease progresses, individuals with Alzheimer’s may experience anxiety and agitation due to the changes in their brain.
In recent years, there has been a rise in the use of fidget toys as a form of anxiety relief for individuals with Alzheimer’s. These handheld objects provide sensory stimulation that can help calm and soothe those with the disease, making them an increasingly popular tool in caregiving.
What are fidget toys?
Fidget toys are small, handheld objects that can be manipulated and played with using one’s fingers. They come in various shapes, sizes, and textures, and are often used to relieve stress, anxiety, and restlessness. Fidget toys were originally designed for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to help them focus better, but they have now found their way into the hands of individuals with Alzheimer’s as well.
How can fidget toys help individuals with Alzheimer’s?
One of the main features of fidget toys is their ability to provide sensory stimulation. People with Alzheimer’s often experience sensory deprivation due to the loss of cognitive function. The use of fidget toys can help stimulate the senses and provide a sense of comfort and familiarity.
Additionally, fidget toys can help reduce agitation and restlessness in individuals with Alzheimer’s. As the disease progresses, they may feel anxious and agitated due to the changes in their brain. Fidget toys can serve as a distraction and help redirect their focus to a more calming activity.
Types of fidget toys for individuals with Alzheimer’s
There are various types of fidget toys available in the market, but not all of them are suitable for individuals with Alzheimer’s. It is important to choose ones that are safe, easy to use, and provide the right level of stimulation.
Some popular fidget toys for individuals with Alzheimer’s include:
1. Fidget spinners: These are small handheld devices that spin between the fingers, providing a repetitive and soothing motion.
2. Sensory balls: These are small, soft balls with different textures that can be squeezed, rolled, or bounced to provide tactile stimulation.
3. Tangle toys: These are a series of interconnecting pieces that can be twisted and turned into different shapes and patterns, providing both visual and tactile stimulation.
4. Fidget puzzles: These are small puzzles that can be manipulated using one’s fingers, providing both mental and tactile stimulation.
5. Fidget cubes: These are small cubes with different buttons, switches, and dials that can be clicked, flipped, and spun, providing a variety of sensory stimulation.
Benefits of using fidget toys for individuals with Alzheimer’s
The use of fidget toys for individuals with Alzheimer’s has been found to have numerous benefits. They can help improve mood and decrease anxiety levels, as well as reduce agitation and restlessness. Fidget toys can also improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination in individuals with Alzheimer’s, promoting brain health and cognitive function.
Moreover, the use of fidget toys can provide a sense of independence and control for individuals with Alzheimer’s. As their ability to carry out daily activities decreases, fidget toys allow them to engage in an activity that they can control and enjoy on their own terms.
Incorporating fidget toys into caregiving
Caregivers play a vital role in the lives of individuals with Alzheimer’s. They not only provide physical support but also emotional support. Incorporating fidget toys into caregiving can be a beneficial and enjoyable activity for both the caregiver and the individual with Alzheimer’s.
Caregivers can introduce fidget toys during moments of heightened anxiety or agitation. They can also encourage the use of fidget toys during daily activities, such as watching television or waiting for appointments. However, it is important to monitor the use of fidget toys and ensure they are safe and appropriate for the individual.
In conclusion, fidget toys have proven to be a helpful tool in providing anxiety relief for individuals with Alzheimer’s. They offer a variety of sensory stimulation and can help improve mood, decrease agitation, and promote brain health. Caregivers should consider incorporating fidget toys into their caregiving routine to provide a sense of comfort and independence for their loved ones with Alzheimer’s. Remember, a simple object like a fidget toy can make a big difference in the life of someone with Alzheimer’s.
