Make this season your most creative by trying these five tips.

There is nothing better than the start of a new season to inspire new hobbies and invoke your inner creative genius. As spring approaches, it provides a fresh start and a new opportunity to embrace creative outlets. Here at Stone Valley Memory Care and Transitional Assisted Living community in Reno, Nevada, we encourage all of our residents to fulfill their full creative potential by trying new things, and opening their eyes to new possibilities.

If you’re looking for a way to get creative with your loved one this season, our expert team has put together these five ways to be more creative throughout the coming season:

Incorporate Music into Daily Routines

Studies show that music is a great way to be more creative. Whether it be listening to old favorites, singing with a group, or making up your own tunes, music invigorates the mind and can help those listening to be more creative. We recommend turning on your loved one’s favorite songs to enjoy while going through your daily routines. Not only will this add a new element of enjoyment to these tasks, but it might even encourage new ideas and activities throughout the day. Try adding music during these tasks:

• Getting ready for the day
• Eating breakfast
• Folding laundry or doing other household tasks
• During downtime
• After dinner

Spend More Time Outside

Going for walks, sitting outside, or admiring nature is an easy way to awaken creativity. There is nothing more peaceful than taking in the beautiful sights of nature, and being located in beautiful Reno gives our community and residents an advantage in this department. Located in one of the most beautiful areas of the country, we have ample views of the wonderful outdoors and weather that allows for us to spend plenty of time outside year-round. Whether it be sitting outside chatting with a friend, or even admiring views from inside, being in touch with nature is relaxing and allows for creative inspiration.

Try Something New

While routine is important for people experiencing memory challenges, it is equally important to gently introduce them to new experiences that they might enjoy! When it comes to sparking creativity, experiencing something new may be just what your loved one needs. Try adding in an extra stroll in the afternoon, or picking up a new hobby every now and then. We also encourage our residents to try new experiences virtually with our Virtual Reality Therapy program! These new experiences are sure to bring joy and excitement, while also allowing your loved one to enjoy from their comfort zone. It is also a great way to make new friends at our community, which is a new and exciting experience in itself!

Draw What You See

When you think of the word “creative,” you probably think of visual art–and for good reason! The next time you’re looking for an activity to enjoy with your loved one, grab a piece of paper and try doodling what you see around you. This can include images, words, or whatever comes to mind! These doodles could just be your new favorite hobby! Just 10 minutes could get you a full stack of sentimental artwork in just a few weeks. If you have trouble getting started, try one of these prompts: someone around you, an object that is close by, something outside in nature, your favorite animal, or a person you haven’t seen in a while.

Tell, Watch, or Read a Story

Stories have a way of taking our minds to new places, both real and imaginary. So if you’re looking for a way to travel without leaving home, or experience a different time or place, dive into a story! Choose the format your loved one tends to like best, whether that be reading aloud, watching a movie or show, or simply telling a story while sitting in a cozy chair. Let your imaginations wander–rather than speeding to the end of the story, encourage questions and side discussions about the plot and characters, if they like. Your creativity will be flowing in no time!

Involving yourself in a creative outlet has many health benefits such as increased relaxation, reduced stress, and increased positive emotions. Here at Stone Valley, a top Reno Memory Care community, we have many opportunities for our residents to get involved.

To learn more about our residency or schedule a Stone Valley tour, contact our friendly team today.

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