Finding the best gift for someone with dementia may seem challenging in the moment. It can be difficult to know what they would truly enjoy and benefit from. However, picking a gift can be extremely fun and rewarding if you know what to look for. And what’s better than gifting a loved one something special? Read on for engaging and meaningful gift suggestions for your loved one based on what stage of dementia they find themselves in.
Our free tool provides options, advice, and next steps based on your unique situation.
In caring for a loved one with dementia, you may find that your loved one’s symptoms are causing them varying levels of discomfort and stress. Fortunately, there are positive, healthy ways to help your loved one manage any stress associated with their dementia diagnosis, which can in turn help lower the risk for negative health consequences.[01]
It’s essential that the gift you give your loved one helps alleviate that discomfort, bringing them a sense of peace and joy instead. Make sure gifts for someone with dementia are simple, useful, and tailored to their personal likes and capabilities. Keep in mind their past career, unique hobbies, and the stage of dementia they’re currently in. These factors can help you determine which gift may ultimately be the best fit.
The following products can reignite memories and give your loved one a sense of joy and comfort, whether your loved one lives at home or in a memory care community. They can also encourage your senior to self-direct, giving you a much-needed break. Games and activities can help calm stress and anxiety, help reduce cognitive decline, and foster social connection.[02]
The curated list below is full of great dementia-friendly gifts for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Whether you’re looking for one-of-a-kind gifts for a mom with dementia or a present to nurture the heart of a nature lover, there’s something for everyone here.
Read more:10 Gifts for Fathers in Skilled Nursing
People with early-stage dementia are still relatively independent, social, and have good communication skills. They’re just starting to see some signs of dementia in their daily lives, like forgetting common words or misplacing everyday objects. Innovative products for seniors may help support your loved one during this stage of dementia.
If you’re looking for gift ideas for someone with an early dementia, consider options that distract their minds, calm their nerves, and ignite fond memories are ideal. Read below for some ideas to get you started.
Games can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. This gift idea for dementia patients not only initiates social interaction but also boosts cognitive thinking and brings some joy and entertainment. The following are a few good examples:
The best gifts typically engage the heart, mind, and soul. Here are a few gifts tailored to encourage the artistic side of seniors who are passionate about art, music, or self-expression. Examples of items that can help get your loved one’s creative juices flowing include the following:
In the middle stages of dementia, seniors’ symptoms begin to get much more noticeable and start altering their behaviors. They may start having trouble performing daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or using the bathroom. You may also notice they’re confusing their words and memories more often. These heightened symptoms can be agitating for your loved one and lead to frustration for both of you. However, despite these behavioral changes, your loved one can likely still recall certain names, faces, and memories.
In late-stage dementia, seniors are typically no longer capable of performing their regular daily activities or hobbies. They may also be exhibiting more signs of agitation, restlessness, or even aggression. You want to be mindful of what your loved one is going through as you broach the thought of buying them a gift.
A good rule of thumb for a middle- to late-stage dementia gift is to focus less on having them complete an activity and more on encouraging simplicity, calmness, and relaxation. Below are a few gift ideas to get you started.
A loved one with moderate dementia is experiencing heightened symptoms but may still have some of their memories and communication skills. Products that can help ease their memory loss symptoms and maintain a sense of independence are great for middle-stage dementia. Here are a couple of examples of assistive products for seniors that can do just that:
Ideal for seniors in late-stage dementia, fidget toys for dementia patients are carefully designed therapeutic tools that can provide comfort and calming sensations for your loved one. They relieve boredom by providing a variety of tactile stimulation options. You can find them online and in various stores, or, if you’re handy with a sewing machine or drill, can be easily made at home. Their attachments can include colorful sequins, a coin purse, Velcro, buckles, and more to keep your loved one at ease while resting or sitting.
Fidget toys can come in a variety of shapes and styles, including the following:
Gifts that simplify everyday life or make tasks easier can be excellent choices for any senior with dementia but especially for those in later stages. The following are gift ideas that may be able to reduce stress or streamline aspects of day-to-day life:
Self-care is important for everyone, especially for seniors with dementia, and self-care can provide quick relief and reduce tension. For seniors who are experiencing overstimulation or agitation, here are a few gift ideas to help calm their nerves.
There are many ways to show your loved one some gratitude and appreciation. Whether it’s through spending time with them, sending a meaningful letter, giving the perfect gift, or a combination of the preceding, your loved one will be thrilled with your final gift decision.
If you need help caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, consider reaching out to a Senior Living Advisor at A Place for Mom. Their services are free to you, and they’ll help you find the right kind of care to match your and your loved one’s needs.
Our free tool provides options, advice, and next steps based on your unique situation.
American Psychological Association. Living well with dementia.
Global Council on Brain Health. (2017). Engage your brain: GCBH recommendations on cognitively stimulating activities.
The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
Make the best senior care decision