With Father’s Day fast approaching, many people are searching for thoughtful gifts for their loved ones. But for some, choosing the right gift can be especially difficult, particularly when buying for a family member with dementia.
Gifts suitable for those with dementia require a number of considerations, which can make gift buying seem limited. The good news is that with the right research beforehand, there are many dementia-friendly gift options to choose from.
Finding a thoughtful gift for your father with dementia shouldn’t be a stressful ordeal, but we understand that it can be. In this guide, we explore some of the best presents for dementia patients to inspire you with your gift selection for this Father’s Day, on June 15th.
Many gifts are great for a person with dementia, from pyjamas to certain jigsaw puzzles, and even stuffed comfort toys. However, before buying a gift for Father’s Day, you should consider the following points:
Their dementia stage
First and foremost, it’s important to consider your father’s stage of dementia. Depending on whether they are in the early or later stages of dementia, this will impact which gifts are suited. In the early stages of dementia, a person still typically enjoys reading, puzzles, and other hobbies. In later stages, a simpler comfort is a better option.
Health and safety
Avoid buying a Father’s Day gift for somebody with dementia that could break, pose a risk (such as sharp, decorative objects), or has detachable components.
Familiarity and comfort
Many dementia patients rely on familiarity; therefore, choosing a gift that provides emotional reassurance or is nostalgic to them is a good idea.
Ease of use
When fine motor skills decline in dementia patients, it can become very difficult to handle certain objects. Choose a gift for your father with dementia that offers ease of use and practicality.
Sensory stimulation
Oftentimes, gifts that engage the senses are some of the best presents for dementia patients. From soothing blankets and socks to a relaxing scented item, there are many sensory-focused presents out there.
1. Low-Count Jigsaw Puzzles
Many dementia patients enjoy puzzles, as not only does this encourage cognitive stimulation, but also provides a sense of accomplishment. Choosing low-count, easier jigsaw puzzles is key, as complex puzzles can have the opposite effect, causing frustration and hopelessness.
We recommend a scenic picture as a starting point, though special dementia jigsaw puzzles are available to buy too. There are many wonderful jigsaw puzzle designs out there suitable for somebody with dementia.
2. Conversational Board Games
Communication with a person with dementia can be challenging and, at times, upsetting. We understand that not every conversational activity goes to plan, however, some board games may be great for your father with dementia.
‘All About Us’ is a board game designed specifically for those with dementia, focusing on storytelling and exploration of life. Other great conversational games include categories and matching board games aswell as classics like Snakes and Ladders.
3. Pyjamas and Blankets
One of the best presents for dementia patients is a simple set of cosy pyjamas or a snuggly blanket. Dementia patients rely on comfort items for reassurance during times of stress and anxiety. There are many lovely pyjamas available for a father, or better yet, why not consider a robe?
An illustrated blanket or hand-knitted crochet quilt are also lovely ideas and guaranteed to be both appreciated and used by your Dad.
4. Colouring Book and Pens
A colouring book is both suitable and beneficial as a gift for Father’s Day since the activity engages motor skills and reduces anxiety. Many dementia patients enjoy relaxing with a colouring book and find that art is a mood booster.
This Father’s Day, why not choose a colouring book that aligns with your father’s interests? There are many themed options available including car colouring books, nature and wildlife, and even postcard-style books.
5. Plush Toy
Finally, but not least, plush toys are excellent gifts for those with dementia as they provide sensory stimulation and comfort at the same time. Many dementia patients enjoy soft toys such as Beanie Babies and Jellycat toys, which offer a wide variety of designs.
Irrespective of age, teddy bears and soft toys can bring about a nostalgic peace unlike anything else.
At Wisteria House Care Home, we offer three dedicated and compassionate dementia care homes in Plymouth. Each setting is thoughtfully designed to feel like home - safe, familiar, and welcoming for both residents and their loved ones. Our goal is to support those living with dementia to maintain their independence and dignity, while receiving the expert care they deserve.
Contact us today to find out more about our care home and how we can help your loved one to live the life they deserve.
In times of need, caring for a loved one is a natural decision for many. That said, it’s not always easy. Caring for someone, no matter how much you love them, can be emotionally and physically demanding and, sometimes, it’s really important to turn that love inward and take breaks.
Supporting a loved one with dementia is never straightforward. Whether your relative has been newly diagnosed or you’re already a caregiver, there are certain steps you can take.
With Father’s Day fast approaching, many people are searching for thoughtful gifts for their loved ones. But for some, choosing the right gift can be especially difficult, particularly when buying for a family member with dementia.
Encourage positive conversations and deeper connections with dementia patients by asking the right questions. Whether over the phone, on a virtual call or in-person, the best questions phrased in the right way can invoke happy memories and shared moments. Many people with dementia can recall vivid memories from their past and love to share them. Here are some tips and questions to ask dementia patients to encourage communication.
If you’re looking for some new and interesting ways to help stimulate and entertain someone who is suffering from dementia, we can help.
Dementia is a complex condition affecting a person’s cognitive ability and can impact everything from their memory, problem-solving skills and language skills in day-to-day life. This can be extremely difficult for the person with dementia to come to terms with, especially as the condition progresses and they become more reliant on others for help with simple tasks.
Many dementia patients will also experience increased anxiety or agitation because of the condition, and one of the ways this can manifest is by increased fidgeting, especially with the hands.
It’s well-known that music is a universal language – one that speaks to us all on a primal level. It creates the soundtrack to many of our days, including some of our most cherished moments, and also has the ability to both lift our spirits and soothe us too. And, while music is an important part of many people’s lives, the benefits of music therapy for dementia patients is especially poignant. Tapping into memories and emotions on a different level, it can be a powerful tool for those living with dementia and its symptoms.
With temperatures dropping and bad weather arriving, it’s important that people with dementia get the extra care they need to be comfortable and feel safe.
Winter often brings more challenges for people with dementia and their caregivers, facing heightened feelings of social isolation and stress. Alongside the extra physical hazards from ice and snow, sometimes symptoms can get temporarily worse. People with dementia may not be able to communicate that they are cold or explain how they are feeling
As the season casts its silvery cloak and the nights draw in, there’s no better time to hunker down and cosy up than winter. One of the best activities for relaxed mornings and slow afternoons during this time of year, winter crafts offer a great way to occupy hands and minds during this season of resetting and rebalancing.