Holiday Gift Ideas
This holiday season, we’ve gathered thoughtful gift ideas that bring comfort, connection, and moments of joy to persons living with dementia and those who support them.
Caregivers often look for ways to make everyday life more meaningful, enjoyable, and supportive for those in their care. These gift ideas are tailored to the needs of someone living with dementia and can help to promote cognitive engagement, emotional well-being, and a sense of connection with loved ones.
When choosing gifts, it’s also important to select one that fits the person living with dementia’s current abilities. Dementia affects everyone differently as it progresses, so tailoring items to their current stage can make the experience more enjoyable. If you need help determining which gift would be the best fit for your loved one, please contact our Education team for more information.
Reminiscence Puzzles & Story Kits
Puzzles and story kits with familiar themes, such as nature, music, or past hobbies, offer gentle mental stimulation and encourage connection through conversation. These activities invite reflection and engagement in a relaxed, enjoyable way.
Personalized Music Experiences
Music is a powerful way to evoke emotion and connection. Simple devices preloaded with familiar songs can encourage singing, movement, and relaxation, offering meaningful shared moments with loved ones.
Sensory Art Kits
Art activities that use textured tools, paint, or clay encourage creativity and self-expression. These hands-on experiences promote focus, fine motor skills, and relaxation while offering a positive outlet for engagement. Look for large-handled paintbrush sets, water-based painting kits, or soft clay for sculpting.
Comforting Sensory Items
Fidget muffs, sensory blankets, and activity boards with zippers, buttons, and textures offer soothing tactile stimulation. These items can help calm restlessness, provide comfort, and encourage gentle engagement.
Digital Photo Displays
Digital frames that rotate family photos or familiar scenes provide comforting visual engagement. They can spark moments of recognition and help strengthen emotional connection with loved ones.
Games for Connection & Enjoyment
Accessible games with simple rules and large, easy-to-handle pieces offer enjoyable ways to spend time together. These activities promote laughter, companionship, and connection in a relaxed and inclusive setting. Look for large-print card games, word-based puzzles, or music-inspired group games.
Indoor Gardening Activities
Gardening provides a meaningful way to connect with nature. Caring for small plants or herbs can offer sensory engagement, promote responsibility, and bring a sense of accomplishment as they grow. Gifts could include a tabletop herb garden kit or easy-to-maintain potted plants.
Comfort Companions
Soft therapy dolls and lifelike robotic pets offer comfort, companionship, and emotional support. They provide a nurturing connection and a sense of calm for individuals living with dementia. Through our Comfort Companions Program, individuals can adopt a therapy doll or robotic pet designed to provide comfort, reduce anxiety, and foster emotional engagement. To learn more, contact us!
Day & Night Digital Clocks with Reminders
Digital clocks that clearly display the day, date, and time can promote orientation and independence. Some models also provide gentle reminders for appointments or routines, helping to support daily structure and reassurance.
All of these gifts offer an opportunity to share meaningful moments and strengthen bonds during the holiday season. Choosing items that inspire comfort, engagement, and joy, helps individuals living with dementia feel included in the festivities and connected to the warmth of the holiday season.
Looking for More Information?
Please contact our Education Team at 905-576-2567 or [email protected].