Why this helps:

On a sweltering summer afternoon, the simple sensation of cool water can be deeply calming and refreshing. This activity is especially helpful if your loved one is restless, agitated, or overheated. The change in temperature is a powerful sensory input that can interrupt a cycle of anxiety and bring a moment of relief.

How to do it:

  • Fill a shallow basin with cool (not ice-cold) water.
  • Invite your loved one to dip their hands or feet in the water. Gently splash or swirl the water around.
  • Let them feel the coolness on their skin. You can also wet a soft cloth and press it gently on their forehead, neck, or arms.

Pro tip:

Add a slice of lemon or a few drops of peppermint or lavender essential oil to the water for an extra sensory layer.

Comfort note:

Always test the water temperature on your own skin first. What feels refreshing to you might feel too cold to them.

Novelty Journaling:

A journal cover to inspire writing and recording of novelty experiences created by the caregiver for the aging loved one living with dementia. This journal is called THE RESET JOURNAL because, according to neuroscience research, doing NOVEL activities with the loved one changes our mindset.

 

“Did the cool water seem to calm them? Did they smile, sigh, or simply relax? How did this small act of cooling change the energy of the afternoon?”

Take a few moments to record your notes in your Novelty Journal. Then read your entry to each other tomorrow as a reminder of how pleasant the reset was. It will serve as a prompt for identifying your next “novelty reset.”

Caregiver note:

This is a wonderful way to reset during a long, hot day. It’s simple, fast, and requires almost no setup, yet it can shift the mood for both of you.

Additional notes:

You can do this indoors or outdoors—on a porch, a patio, or even in a sunny kitchen. If you have a small fan, aim it at the water for a cool breeze effect.

And… a reminder to each attentive and vigilant caregiver to also “stay fresh,” boost one’s own energy, and improve one’s focus while helping the loved one do the same! Everyone feels better.

Especially for the caregiver - a poster with a reminder to drink water and to help the Loved One also DRINK WATER!

 

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

 

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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