We call this category “Alternative Television”. News, Sitcoms, movies – even old movies- are not always good for people with dementia. Much of television programming is, to them, difficult to follow and understand. Because it can be hard for someone with dementia to separate what they are watching on TV from reality, programs including the news can be downright frightening.
So we have found some excellent alternatives to television.
Developed from research at the University of Utah, this series of thirteen Video Respite DVDs affords a very accessible way to deliver meaningful therapy to people with dementia including Alzheimer’s disease.
The actors in these thirteen videos become real friends to those watching. As they converse or sing together, while they reminisce about times past, you are able to have some time away from your caregiver role, time to get dinner on the table, to read a book, or spend time with your children.
Available individually or in a set of thirteen.
We have a collection of professionally produced videos that deal, at least in part, in the eras that many seniors are very familiar with. For example, younger people today probably don’t know what a Burma Shave Jingle is, but most people in their 70s and 80s likely do. And people with Alzheimer’s disease have better memories of their younger days than they do of today. That is what makes nostalgia and reminiscing so powerful.
Nature Videos
various
We prefer these over television programming and most types of movies and videos because there is no plot or story line to follow, no stupid jokes to understand, no scary news stories. People with dementia often have a hard time differentiating reality from what they see on the screen. Sometimes that can lead to unpleasant situations.
These are just video clips taken from nature and accompanied either by natural sounds or relaxing and meditative music, meant to soothe and relax.
Reminiscence music, like the songs contained on these DVDs, is therapeutic.
This collection includes familiar melodies that have been sung by generations of Americans. There are 20 volumes (not all shown here) and more than 235 songs in all. Each video follows a specific theme; among the most popular are love songs, patriotic music and songs about travel.
Please tell us about your favorite things to watch with you loved one.
First name is sufficient. The more information you supply, the better we like it. We especially like your personal comments and critique. But, if all you have is a title, we can take it from there.
Organizations & Affiliations
Purple Angel Ambassador
Dementia Friendly America
