Practical Gifts That Help: What To Buy For A Loved One With Dementia?

Choosing a gift for a loved one with dementia involves more than picking out something you think they would like. It involves a deep understanding of their needs, cognitive abilities and what brings them joy. Comfort and safety considerations also become instrumental in the decision making process. 

Considerations when picking a gift

Before we delve into gift suggestions, here are some pointers you might want to keep in mind before going on to select a gift. 

Take into account the stage of dementia – different gifts are suited for different stages of the condition. A loved one at an earlier stage of dementia is still rather independent whilst one at later stages of dementia might need gifts which offer comfort and sensory simulation. 

Select gifts which are tied to their interests and hobbies – If your loved one had a favourite band, loved a particular dish or even a particular aroma – it is good to select gifts which can spark good memories and joy. 

Comfort and connection at the centre of it all – Choosing a gift which is safe and easy to use is number one priority but comfort and connection are also equally as important. 

Practical gifts for a loved one with dementia

Gifts that assist with activities of daily living

These gifts aim to improve quality of life and independence for a loved one with dementia. It is especially helpful for one in the early to middle stages where there is still a certain level of autonomy but increasing levels of support is required. An electric toothbrush such as the Oral-B Pro Battery Electric Toothbrush is easy to use and encourages hygiene. To assist in activities of daily living such as dressing oneself, a closet organiser is a good option for your loved ones to easily access their clothes, encouraging independence. Voice-activated assistants (like Alexa or Google Home) can also be programmed for reminders or routines. 

Gifts for cognitive stimulation

These are gifts that can help stimulate the mind, boost confidence, and even spark joyful moments of recognition and memory. Custom photo puzzles are a great gift as one can customise a family photo into a puzzle. Modeling clay or therapy dough requires one to exercise motor skills and use some creative juices to make a figurine out of clay.

Gifts that improve comfort levels

For one with dementia, emotional regulation, anxiety, restlessness, or difficulty communicating are common. When picking out a gift, keep in mind that it should soothe, engage, and promote a sense of safety and peace. Weighted blankets provide a gentle, calming pressure that can reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. If your loved one is not sensitive to scents, pick out aromatherapy diffusers with calming scents such as lavender, vanilla, or chamomile. Lastly, instead of a static physical photo frame, a digital photo frame allows you to put pictures on rotation. This can stimulate emotional connection whilst looking at familiar faces and places. 

Customised gifts

When a gift comes from the heart – your loved one would be able to sense that. A generic item can become special when it’s personal — a custom photo book, a playlist of their favorite songs, or a stuffed animal with their name on it.

Notes of affirmation kept in a jar could also serve as timely reminders of your love and appreciation for each other. 

Conclusion

Selecting a gift for a loved one with dementia goes beyond simply selecting a gift that they fancy. By focussing on their needs and current abilities, it best allows us to keep sight on what would support and encourage them in the best fashion possible.