A gym for the mind 1

The result of a cognitive stimulation programme developed by the University of Padova, A Gym for the mind 1 is addressed to patients with mild to moderate cognitive impairment, their families and all those who want to deal with people affected by consequences of brain aging on the various mental functions. The proposed activities, which are a summary of the most accredited rehabilitation interventions, are useful to slow the progression of cognitive decline and benefit of a better quality of life, for both the patient and the ones who care. In the first part of the book particular importance is given to the reconstruction of the person’s life history by exploring, with targeted questions and lots of photos, experiences and events throughout all phases of its existence, up to the present moment, creating a diary-calendar, as a natural extension of one’s journey. In the second part, the proposed activities are specific to the areas most affected bythe aging process (orientation in time and space, language, memory, etc.). All the activities that make up the volume can be proposed individually or in groups by experienced professionals or family caregivers and can be adapted and extended according to everyone’s specific needs.