Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Jan 1, 2023 | Giving Care, Jan - Feb 2023
Much more than just a time-filler, live music holds therapeutic benefits for nursing home residents. According to a 2016 study, live music has been shown to reduce cortisol levels in the body, allowing for a stronger immune system, reduction in depression, better memory and many other benefits. It’s no wonder that nursing homes schedule in a healthy dose of live music!
Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Nov 2, 2022 | Giving Care, Nov - Dec 2022
According to a 2021 research review on the impact of gardening in dementia treatment, exposure gardening activities has shown many benefits for the dementia population. Some of these benefits include reduction in depression and aggressive behaviors, an increase in engagement, improved mood and an increased sense of purpose.
Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Feb 27, 2022 | Giving Care, March-April 2022
Meaningful, familiar and ability-matching activities for those with dementia is the goal of the Montessori method of dementia care. Long-term memories can be unlocked through engaging in familiar tasks.
Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Oct 1, 2021 | Giving Care, October-November 2021
For someone with dementia, both too much and too little sensory stimulation may lead to agitated behaviors. To keep your loved one at a regulated state of sensory stimulation, it is important to consider what is providing sensory stimulation in each space.
Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Jun 7, 2021 | Giving Care, June-July 2021
Providing meaningful activities for your loved one with dementia is very possible. Activities can add meaning, boost quality of life, and provide beautiful opportunities for connection. Here are some tips…
Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Apr 4, 2021 | April - May 2021, Giving Care
Beginning in March 2020, recreation therapists, activity directors and staff were faced with the daunting task of making their activities safe for their residents. Groups were cancelled; family members, volunteers and outside entertainment were no longer allowed inside of nursing homes. Much more time was devoted to cleaning and social distancing.
Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Oct 7, 2020 | Giving Care, October - November 2020
Music is often the background of many of our memories. We grow up hearing it on the radio, on TV and in concerts. We sang in school and at special events. We often associate certain songs with our relationships, happy memories, sad memories, growing up and different seasons of life. Because of its constant presence in our lives, music is deeply woven into our memories, and can offer hope and helpful tools to those whose memories are fading.