Buying Christmas gifts for a loved one who is experiencing the effects of dementia can be tremendously challenging as the gift ideas will vary depending on their abilities.
The best one can do is to choose something that promotes a feeling of familiarity while keeping in mind safety.
The following are a few examples.
If they are the type of person who is very concerned with time, perhaps a clock or watch would make for a lovely gift.
Since those with Alzheimer's disease can have difficulty with telling time, opt for a simple design with large numbers and face.
Just make sure you do not get a digital clock as they seem to cause confusion as the disease progresses.
Games for intellectual stimulation are another great idea.
Try to choose a familiar game so that nothing new needs to be learned.
You can also go for a game that promotes social interaction, such as dominos, scrabble or Mah-jong.
Quizzes, puzzles such as word search, crosswords and Sudoku can be another fantastic option as these are activity ideas that they can do on their own.
You can also find other great gift ideas for brain health from Nognz Brain Fitness in West Vancouver at www.
nognz.
com (One of my favourite place to shop!) When it comes to personal care products feel free to go ahead and splurge on a beautiful gift basket.
These gifts could give them some sense of autonomy and something special of their own that is also practical.
Bathing products with the scents such as vanilla or lavender may bring calm and familiarity to them.
Bubble bath products could be a fantastic motivator for those who are having more difficulty getting cleaned in the tub.
Why not create a family photo album or pictures to hang on the wall.
Try to use pictures that include them in it and be sure to include a date to help them recall the time period the picture was taken.
It is important for your loved one to feel that they are still important to the family.
Finally, how about a warm cozy blanket or even a snuggie!This is great for those who are in later stages of dementia.
Often they would be more likely to be in bed or a wheel chair recliner.
Choose a colour that always suited their taste to help them maintain their personal preferences comfort level and dignity.
If they were never one for flashy colour or design, then be sure the blanket is a solid warm earth tone colour.
In short, this Christmas offer simple, safe projects that build their confidence as well as gifts that make them feel loved.
Happy Holidays!