holiday presents for individuals dealing with dementia in the year 2023
As the holiday season approaches, finding the perfect gift for loved ones living with dementia can be a thoughtful and rewarding experience. Here are some practical and meaningful gift ideas that focus on enhancing comfort, stimulating memory, and providing meaningful engagement.
**Memory Box** A memory or keepsake box filled with personal items such as photographs, favorite cards, small mementos, or childhood keepsakes can help those with dementia revisit positive memories and foster emotional connection.
**Activity Workbooks and Puzzles** Specialized dementia-friendly puzzles or activity workbooks stimulate cognitive function while being tailored to the individual’s abilities and interests.
**DVDs of Favorite Shows or Movies** Movies or TV shows from their past, especially from the 1950s-1970s, can evoke pleasant memories and provide comforting entertainment.
**Fidget Aprons or Sensory Items** Items that provide tactile engagement, such as fidget aprons or sensory toys, help manage agitation and provide comfort through touch.
**Printable Daily Routine Cards** Daily routine cards designed for dementia patients can help with orientation and maintaining independence by reminding them of activities like meals and washing.
**Personalized Gifts Encouraging Inclusion** Gifts that help include the person with dementia in holiday celebrations—such as simple crafts or sensory activities—support their participation and emotional well-being during the season.
In addition to these gifts, there are several affordable options available online. The Relish Fidget Widgets, a set of five wooden sensory tools, can help Dementia patients learn to calm themselves down and become more chill through activity. The Balkwan Moon Lamp, a rechargeable night light suitable for reading, gazing, or photography, is available for under $20 on Amazon.com.
For older adults who love music, the Relish Portable Radio and MP3 Music Player for Seniors is a great option, priced under $150. The Glade Apple Cinnamon Candle Jar, a popular choice among older adults, is available for under $5 on Amazon.com.
If you're looking for a gift that can be shared, the Merry Christmas Chocolate Gift Basket, filled with gourmet Chocolates from San Francisco's most famous Chocolatier, is available for under $50 on Amazon.com.
Remember, a meaningful gift can fill a Dementia patient with joy and let them know that they are not forgotten. Whether it's a personalized memory box, a soothing candle, or a portable radio, every gift has the potential to create special moments during the holiday season.
Lastly, it's essential to consider the recipient's history and preferences when choosing a gift. If a Dementia patient has a history of harming themselves with common household items, it's suggested that one should find out about this before choosing a gift.
Happy holiday shopping!
- For individuals with dementia who enjoy cooking, a simplified cookbook filled with easy recipes could support their independence in the kitchen and contribute to their mental health through a creative activity.
- An affordable yoga or exercise DVD could offer beneficial fitness-and-exercise routines tailored to improve flexibility, balance, and overall health-and-wellness for those living with dementia.
- A nicely designed nutrition mug or water bottle with inspiring quotes about health and wellness could encourage proper hydration and healthy drinking habits, contributing to their well-being.
- A set of dementia-friendly cookware with large handles and non-slip surfaces can make meal preparation safer and more enjoyable, promoting a healthier lifestyle and food-and-drink choices.
