Valencia Family Resource Library Guide: Acts of Kindness

Acts of Kindness

There is a lot about Alzheimer’s that can leave us feeling powerless and at its mercy. To combat these feelings, you can do something positive for the world to take back your power and do good. These activities can be done individually, as a family, or with your loved one who has Alzheimer’s. 

Notice the Little Things

When with your loved one who has developed Alzheimer’s, take time to notice the small things around you which are beautiful. Snowflakes, flowers, leaves, or animals can all have a pleasurable impact on your loved one, distracting him/her for even a moment and reminding them that life is beautiful.

Sign Up for a Charity Event

Walking or running a race isn’t just helpful in staving off the effects of Alzheimer’s, but the social engagement is also good for brains that have developed Alzheimer’s. Meeting new people, sharing in a positive experience with others, and creating new memories as a family are all good for their brains. Adults with larger social networks score better on cognitive tests, even if plaque or tangles were evident. (Larsen, 2006) In addition, not only are you doing something good for your loved one, you’ll be able to reflect on the positivity of doing something good for your community too!

Take Care of Yourselves

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is stressful in any capacity. Be sure during this time that you are also caring for yourself. Getting enough sleep, getting regular exercise, eating well, and taking time for yourself will all be critical in balancing this stress. If you have children who are now worried about more family members developing Alzheimer’s, you can reassure them that a healthy lifestyle is the best way to protect themselves against such a development. If this is a concern, go on a walk together outside, plan a healthy meal together, or play a board game that challenges your brain.

Say Thank You

Creating little notes or cards thanking your loved one with Alzheimer’s can provide comfort and spark memories for them. These keepsakes can be used to create albums, memory boxes, or just kept on display. Notes might say “thank you for that time you baked cookies with me” or “thank you for that time you made me laugh so hard when…” etc.