We’ve made our way into September, which means fall is just days away! While we might all be looking forward to cooling weather conditions, plus the fun holiday festivities to follow, we mustn’t forget that now is definitely the time to take advantage of crossing off one more thing from your summer bucket list! At Oakwood Creative Care, we are all about combining joy and creativity to enhance the quality of life for seniors with dementia and other cognitive or physical challenges. In other words, we’re kind of the experts when it comes to fun! With that said, here is our last-minute advice for any caregiver who wants to make the most out of the last days of summer: Now is the time to treat you and your loved one to an ice cream date… or two or three!
Why Is Oakwood All About Ice Cream?
Every one of Oakwood’s Adult Day Clubs follows the same motto: eat ice cream, give hugs, laugh out loud! Sure, ice cream is tasty and all, but why make it a cornerstone in our unique model of dementia care? The answer is in the science! Neuroscientists at the Institute of Psychiatry in London have found that when a person eats ice cream, there is an immediate effect on parts of the brain known to activate when people enjoy themselves; these include the orbitofrontal cortex, the “processing” area at the front of the brain.
And guess what — the science doesn’t just stop there. Graham’s Family Dairy points out that ice cream contains protein and fat, both necessary ingredients needed to help level our moods. Moreover, the amino acids that come with eating ice cream increase serotonin production, leaving us feeling calm, satisfied, and just plain happy! So take our advice, caregivers, and serve up a few scoops of this serotonin boost!
There Is A Flavor Of Ice Cream For Everyone!
Whether you like to stick to the ol’ classics, like chocolate or vanilla, or prefer something a little extra, such as rocky road or cookies n’ cream, there really is a flavor of ice cream for everyone. This frosty dairy treat is also often known for its versatility and compatibility with almost any and all dietary selections (i.e., sugar or dairy-free).
In fact, members of Oakwood Creative Care have even had the past pleasure of making homemade ice cream all by themselves, complete with all their favorite flavors and toppings! All members needed were a few ingredients and a bag to shake things up (literally!). Who knew that making ice cream could be so easy? So much so that we have included a recipe of our own for homemade ice cream as part of Oakwood’s dementia-friendly cooking series. All caregivers can find it here: https://bit.ly/45Ju3By.
Take Our Advice, Caregivers: Have That Ice Cream Date!
You’ve heard the saying, “It’s five o’clock somewhere.” Now, let’s add a new motto to your regime: Anytime is a good time for ice cream! Whether you’re looking for an after-dinner dessert or want to shake things up and get a little wild with ice cream for breakfast, it’s always the perfect time to say yes to sharing a tasty frozen delight between you and your loved one. So, caregivers, take our advice and spoons up!
Did You Know?
Oakwood Creative Care is bringing back the JOY in aging! We believe a diagnosis should not have to define your life. Instead, we have devoted our mission to reigniting hope for caregivers and older adults with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other age-related challenges. Click the button below to learn more about how we do this through our research-based, cutting-edge, creative care model found at each of our Day Clubs.
