Why this helps:

Image of a format used by a dementia caregiver to brainstorm a "Summer Bucket List" with the older adult with dementia for whom she is caring.Anticipation is a form of joy!

Creating a visual list of simple, achievable summer pleasures gives your loved one something to look forward to.

The list can include tiny things (eat a popsicle, sit in the shade) and slightly bigger ones (visit a relative, water the garden).

Checking items off together builds a sense of accomplishment.

 

How to do it:

  • Take a large piece of paper or a whiteboard.
  • Brainstorm together: “What do we want to do this summer?” Write or draw each idea.
  • Hang the list where you’ll see it daily. Choose one item to try each week.

Pro tip:

Keep items very simple and sensory: “Feel the grass with our toes,” “Smell a fresh lemon,” “Watch the sunset.”

Image of older person's feet, barefoot in the grass with a flower between the toes. It is a brainstorming suggestion for a SUMMER BUCKET LIST, one in the realm of the senses - to awaken sensations long overlooked in the older adult years.

Comfort note:

It’s fine if few items get checked off. The act of imagining together is the real gift.

Novelty Journaling:

  • “What did we add to our bucket list today? Which item made them smile just to think about?”
  • “Did we both experience a shift in mindset while creating a fun-filled and joy-filled bucket list?”

A turqouise banner introducing "Novelty Journaling" and asking the question: "Did we both experience a mindset shift (as caregiver and and loved one) as we brainstormed our "Summer Bucket List"??

Caregiver note:

This activity shifts your focus from the hard work of caregiving to the small pleasures available all around us. It’s a mindset tool for everyone involved in the brainstorming. And if you are fortunate enough to have family support, this would be a valuable activity to outsource to 1-2 (or more) cohesive and participating family members. It would provide you some breathing space.

Dementia caregiver is organizing the board after brainstorming with the loved one their ideas for a Summer Bucket List.

Additional notes:

Use magazine clippings, stickers, or drawings to make the list visually engaging. Laminate it so you can check items off with a dry-erase marker and reuse it.

 

Learn more about NOVELTY JOURNALING:

365 Ways to Say I Care
The NOVELTY EXPLAINER – Part I: What This Is

365 Ways to Say I Care
The Novelty Explainer – Part II: How Novelty Journaling Changes Us

Where attention goes, care begins.
365 Ways to Say I Care | ABeautifulVoice.org

Blog Author:

Zulekha ("Zuley") is a brilliant content writer who demonstrates empathy and compassion in storytelling.

Zulekha Ali (“Zuley”) is a freelance writer with a commitment to delivering informative and impactful content to enrich readers’ understanding and empower them to make informed decisions.

Blog Co-Author:

Susan Troyer
Founder / Author, ABeautifulVoice.org 🌿

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