(HealthDay News) -- People with Alzheimer's disease should be kept busy, both mentally and physically. This can be a challenge.

The National Institute on Aging says building on current skills generally works better than trying to learn something new. The agency offers these suggestions:

  • Keep activities simple and at the person's level.
  • Offer more support as the person gets started, and break the activity into small steps.
  • Don't push any activity if you notice the person getting agitated.
  • If the person enjoys certain activities, try to make them part of a daily routine.
  • Have the person assist in the entire routine. At mealtime, for instance, have the person help set the table, make the food and clean up afterward.