Some folks may have the need for simpler activities and some …

may need help staying connected to the world around them. A caregiver can help by keeping things simple and helping them increase awareness of their environment.

There are several things we can do to make activities simple. Breaking down activities into small steps and shortening an activity can help. Using sensory in our activities is another way of helping people stay connected. Think of sensory as things to see like photographs, or things to taste like an orange slice, noticing the sound of a train, experiencing the touch of a kitten, or smelling the aroma of lavender.

And we can also tell simple stories that encompass many sensory experiences. 

We all tell stories; we all listen to stories. That is what our everyday world is made of. Stories are how we paint a picture of what is going on in our lives and the world. Spring comes and there are stories of planting seeds and seeing the first bird’s nests. We reminisce about Grandma’s house, and you know how many stories live there! We all have the need to share stories.

What are Sensory Stories?

Sensory Stories with Companion Activities for Older Adults are short stories that embrace the world around us – nature, family, the seasons, and even things that help us remember. Each story in this book is written with simple phrases with each sentence being a place to stop and talk awhile or experience something sensory. There are no rules when reading a story. If a story leads you to talk about the weather, go there. If a story leads you to a funny memory, have a laugh. If a story leads you to sing a song, sing. There are twelve sensory stories in all.

The stories in this bundle also have a supply idea list and companion activities for bridging the story. Companion activities are activities with the purpose of supporting the theme of the story. Because there are many companion activities that accompany each story, the story or theme can be scheduled for more than one sensory program time. For example, one theme or story can be continued throughout the month.

Sensory Stories with Companion Activities for Older Adults is a digital book (instant download that you print) available on Etsy now.

For more Sensory Simple Activities check out these posts here!