{"id":205202,"date":"2024-12-03T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-12-03T10:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.care.com\/c\/?p=205202"},"modified":"2025-07-15T23:36:31","modified_gmt":"2025-07-15T23:36:31","slug":"gifts-for-people-with-dementia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.care.com\/c\/gifts-for-people-with-dementia\/","title":{"rendered":"19 gifts for people with dementia"},"content":{"rendered":"

Finding gifts for people with dementia can be tricky. Not only are you trying to find something that suits their specific taste, but you also want to buy a gift that’s relatively simple and won’t cause agitation. That being said, finding good gifts for people with dementia isn’t impossible — and with a little research, the end result is sure to spark delight.<\/p>

“Gifts can bring joy and comfort at any stage of dementia, notes ​​Dr. John Showalter, chief strategy officer at Linus Health<\/a>, a digital health company enabling early detection of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. “The best gift for a loved one will depend on the person, but any gift that is safe, designed to bring joy and avoids frustration is a good one.”<\/p>

Whether you’re shopping for a birthday, the holidays or just because, check out our roundup of gift ideas for people with dementia. Our expert-vetted suggestions are low on frustration and high on joy.<\/p>

Gifts for people with early-stage dementia<\/h2>

According to Jennifer Fink, host of the “Fading Memories<\/a>” podcast and community educator for the Alzheimer’s Association, gifts for people with dementia in the early stages can be similar to something you’ve bought in the past. “Keep their current lifestyle in mind,” she says. However, Showalter adds, “gifts that promote socialization, engage the mind and promote emotional well-being” are always a good idea.<\/p>

A few ideas, per Showalter and Fink:<\/p>

1. Memberships to social clubs<\/h3>
\"senior<\/figure><\/div>

It’s important to stay engaged and active in the community — any community! — at any stage in life, so consider a membership to a club or group you know piques their interest. Some options include bowling leagues, the Audubon Society<\/a> or pottery classes. <\/p>

2. Subscription to apps<\/h3>
\"apps<\/figure><\/div>

There are a number of apps geared towards flexing cognitive muscles, including Luminosity<\/a>, MindMate<\/a> and CogniFit<\/a>. The Alzheimer’s Family Center<\/a> has a list of apps they recommend for dementia.<\/p>

3. Puzzle books<\/h3>
\"sudoku
Image via Amazon<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>

Sudokos, crosswords, word searches — there are a number of puzzle books from which to choose. And for “pen and paper” folks, these are an especially good idea!<\/p>

Where to buy:<\/strong> Sudoku Book<\/a> ($7, Amazon)<\/p>

4. Trips<\/h3>
\"older<\/figure><\/div>

Whether you take a trip you’ve always been talking about or go on an impromptu mini road trip, a getaway, Showalter notes, is particularly special, as nothing trumps “your time and presence.” <\/p>

Gifts for people with middle-stage dementia<\/h2>

As folks progress to the middle stage of the disease, it’s best to keep things “more simple and more applicable to their changing abilities,” according to Fink. <\/p>

A few options to consider:<\/p>

5. Simple crafts<\/h3>
\"wreath
Image via Oriental Trading<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>

“I always suggest finding a more simplified version of a hobby they’ve enjoyed,” Fink says. “For example, my mom had always been creative, so it was logical to look to simplified crafts.”<\/p>

Where to buy:<\/strong> Wreath Craft Kit<\/a> ($15, Oriental Trading)<\/p>

6. Clothes<\/h3>
\"half
Image via Joe & Bella<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>

People with dementia often lose or gain weight, Fink says, so clothing that is easy to get on and off in their new size “is a blessing.” Things like pull-on pants and tops with no buttons are ideal. Fink is a big fan of the adaptive clothing brand, Joe & Bella, which can make getting dressed easier and quicker.<\/p>

Where to buy: <\/strong>Half-Zip Pant for women<\/a> or men<\/a> ($32, Joe & Bella)<\/p>

7. Food<\/h3>
\"senior<\/figure><\/div>

Food is always a good idea — and certain recipes, and their accompanying smells, have the ability to transport people back to a certain time and place or remind them of someone they love. And as a bonus, Fink notes, if you drop off a special meal they can put in the Crock-Pot or microwave, you’re also helping out their partner or caregiver.<\/p>

8. Simple games to play together<\/h3>
\"connect
Image via Amazon<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>

The middle stage of dementia is the stage where “doing things” with them is likely more appreciated, Fink notes. Consider playing simple card games or Connect Four, which is is easy and visual.<\/p>

Where to buy:<\/strong> Connect Four<\/a> ($14, Amazon)<\/p>

9. Simple outings<\/h3>
\"botanical<\/figure><\/div>

Again, spending time together is key. Fink suggests a simple outing that’s pleasant and isn’t overstimulating, such as an aquarium or botanical garden, and try to choose a time that isn’t busy.<\/p>

<\/p>

Gifts for people with late-stage dementia<\/h2>

As dementia progresses, Showalter suggests placing an increased focus on comfort and things that will “bring joy and reduce agitation.” <\/p>

Here are a few ideas:<\/p>

10. Soft blankets<\/h3>
\"wicked
Image via L.L. Bean<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>

A soft blanket is perfect for anyone, but it can be incredibly comforting to anyone with late-stage dementia. “Simple is best during this stage,” Fink notes.<\/p>

Where to buy:<\/strong> Wicked Plush Throw<\/a> ($30, L.L. Bean)<\/p>

11. Fuzzy socks<\/h3>
\"slouchy
Image via Softies<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>

Just as good as a warm blanket are cozy socks to slip on when it’s chilly. “Don’t worry about feeling ‘cheap,'” Fink says. It’s all about keeping things simple. <\/p>

Where to buy:<\/strong> Slouchy Marshmallow Socks<\/a> ($19, Softies)<\/p>

12. Stuffed animals <\/h3>
\"vermont
Image via Vermont Teddy Bear<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>

Another cozy option? A stuffed animal, which according to the Alzheimer’s Store<\/a>, can reduce stress and agitation. From robotic to “regular,” there are a number of stuffed animals to choose from, all at varying price points. <\/p>

Where to buy:<\/strong> Classic Bow Tie Teddy Bear<\/a> ($61, Vermont Teddy Bear)<\/p>

13. Music <\/h3>
\"relish
Image via Relish Life<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>

Music is another way to “bring joy and reduce agitation” in people with dementia, Fink notes. Relish Radio<\/a> is a simple-to-use music player that’s specifically geared towards people with late-stage dementia. <\/p>

Where to buy:<\/strong> Relish Radio for Dementia<\/a> ($150, Relish Life)<\/p>

14. Scented lotions<\/h3>
\"warm
Image via Philosophy<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>

According to Fink, “items that might be appreciated are things that smell good, such as hand cream for a nice massage.” However, she adds, “it’s best to avoid food smells, as you don’t want them to get confused and attempt to eat a candle.”<\/p>

Where to buy: <\/strong>Warm Cashmere Body Lotion<\/a> ($29, Philosophy)<\/p>

15. Sweet treats<\/h3>
\"senior
senior eating cake<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>

Chocolate, cupcakes, cookies — sweet treats are universally loved, and they’re a great gift for people with dementia, “as sweet is the last taste to go,” notes Fink.<\/p>

16. Baby dolls<\/h3>
\"therapy
Image via The Alzheimer’s Store<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>

Baby dolls can be great for folks with dementia. In fact, there’s even Baby Doll Therapy<\/a>, which has been proven to help reduce agitation in patients. Consider a simple doll or one geared towards people with dementia. <\/p>

Where to buy: <\/strong>Newborn Comfort Therapy Doll<\/a> ($120, The Alzheimer’s Store)<\/p>

17. A day spent scrapbooking<\/h3>
\"seniors<\/figure><\/div>

<\/p>

Combing through photos together in a quiet environment can be both soothing and healing, according to the Alzheimer’s Association<\/a>. And in the end, you’ll have a beautiful keepsake. <\/p>

18. Adaptive dining ware<\/h3>
\"adaptive
Image via Amazon<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>

Another suggestion from the Alzheimer’s Association is adaptive dining ware, which prevents spills and makes mealtimes less frustrating.<\/p>

Where to buy:<\/strong> Adaptive Dining Ware Set<\/a> ($31, Amazon)<\/p>

19. A skit <\/h3>
\"child<\/figure><\/div>

Fink notes that if there are young kids in the family, a skit, song or dance can be great for people living with late-stage dementia. “Let them be goofy kids,” she notes. “This type of interaction is great for everyone. However, it should be short, as dancing, twirling and singing kids can be a lot.”<\/p>

The bottom line<\/h2>

When you give a person living with dementia a thoughtful gift, you’re having a “meaningful impact on their emotional and mental well-being and helping to enhance their quality of life,” says Showalter.<\/p>

Just remember, keep it simple, Fink adds. “Take into consideration their current cognitive ability and focus on making them feel loved,” she says. “It’s less about stuff and more about feelings.”<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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