Choosing the right gift for someone living with dementia is not always easy. You want to give something meaningful, but it can be difficult to know what is appropriate.

The type of gifts you give may need to change as a person moves through the stages of dementia. They don’t need to be expensive – the best gifts for people with dementia are things that bring comfort, spark joy, and help the person to feel connected to people and memories they love.  

Gift ideas for someone with early dementia

In the early stages of dementia, many people still enjoy hobbies, routines, and social interactions. The best gifts at this stage support memory, independence, and engagement.

Some ideas to try:

• A personalised photo calendar – Create a calendar with pictures of family members, beloved pets, and familiar places.
• A daily memory journal – In addition to standard features such as the date and day of the week, memory journals can contain helpful prompts such as, How I felt today, People I saw or spoke to, and What I did today.
• Voice-activated music or audiobooks – Devices with small buttons or complex menus can be confusing for someone living with dementia. Voice-activated devices such as smart speakers or voice assistants allow users to say, “Play my favourite music” or “Read me a story,” making them much more accessible.
• A digital photo frame – These frames can be preloaded with family photos, scenic images, or short video messages. They offer a rotating display of familiar faces and places, which can spark recognition and conversation. Some models allow remote updates – so family members can add new photos from afar.
• Large print puzzle books – It’s well known that doing puzzles is excellent for brain health, but standard puzzle books may be too complicated. Puzzle books with large text, simplified instructions, and less visual clutter are easier for someone living with dementia to navigate.

Keeping a daily memory journal can help people living with dementia stay connected to their thoughts and experiences.

Birthday gifts for people with dementia

Birthdays are a chance to celebrate life and create new memories. The best birthday gifts for people living with dementia are those that feel familiar, personal, and joyful to the recipient.

Ideas to consider:

• A personalised storybook – A custom storybook that tells the person’s life story, complete with photos and anecdotes. 
• A memory box – Filling a sturdy box with small, meaningful items, like old postcards, medals, costume jewellery, or vintage toys is especially powerful for those who enjoy reminiscing.
• Shared activities – Give the gift of time with a present that encourages interaction such as large-print card games or simple puzzles that can be played with family or caregivers.
• Make their favourite cake or treats – Food is a powerful sensory experience. A cake in their favourite flavour, or a treat from their childhood, can evoke happy memories.
• A photo collage  – Create a visual timeline of their life – complete with family, friends, pets, and special moments – as a birthday gift. This can be displayed in their room and become a conversation starter with visitors and caregivers.
• Jigsaw puzzles and adult colouring books – These can be completed either individually or with the support of another person. This can provide a meaningful and calming activity for the person living with dementia.

A memory box filled with items that are meaningful or interesting for the person living with dementia.

Christmas presents for people with dementia

The festive season can be overwhelming, so it’s best to keep Christmas gifts simple, comforting, and familiar. 

Some festive gift ideas:

• Cosy holiday socks or blankets – A warm, festive blanket or a pair of non-slip holiday socks not only keeps your loved one comfortable but also adds a cheerful seasonal touch. Choose materials that are soft, gentle on the skin, and easy to wash.
• Familiar Christmas music – Music is one of the most powerful memory triggers. A simple music player or a voice-activated device preloaded with their favourite Christmas carols or songs from their youth can bring up happy memories of Christmases past.
• Personalised tree ornaments – Custom ornaments featuring family names, photos, or meaningful symbols can be hung on the tree together as a shared activity.
• Mini tabletop tree – A small, easy-to-decorate tree can bring festive cheer without the overwhelm of a full-sized one. Choose one with soft lights and lightweight decorations – or even pair with personalised tree ornaments.
• Traditional recipe book – A recipe book featuring family favourites or classic holiday treats can be a wonderful gift, especially if paired with a baking session and taste testing.

Comfort-focused gifts for mid to late-stage dementia

As dementia progresses, sometimes the person may sleep a lot more. At this stage comfort and sensory stimulation are most important. These gifts are designed to soothe, calm, and connect.

Comforting options:

• Weighted blankets – Weighted blankets provide gentle, even pressure that can help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep. They’re especially helpful for people who experience restlessness or agitation. Just be aware that weighted blankets need to be appropriate for the weight and strength of the person as older people may find it more difficult to have too much weight on their legs, arms or neck. Check the weight before purchasing and seek advice if necessary. 
• Fidget quilts and tactile cushions – Fidget quilts (also called sensory lap blankets) and tactile cushions are designed with various textures, zippers, buttons, and ribbons. They offer a safe way to keep hands busy and reduce stress.
• Weighted baby dolls or animals – These comforting companions can provide a sense of security and emotional connection. For some, they may evoke nurturing instincts or memories of children or pets. 
• Scented pillows or aromatherapy – Scents like lavender, citrus, rose, or vanilla can have a calming effect. Aromatherapy pillows or diffusers can be used during rest times or as part of a bedtime routine.

Gifts for people living with dementia can make a lasting impact

Regardless of the occasion, the most appropriate gifts for people living with dementia are those that show love in a way the person still understands and can appreciate. Particularly for those in the later stages of dementia, it’s not so much about the value of the gift itself, it’s about the positive feelings it brings for the recipient.

How Ryman can help 

At Ryman, we support families and residents through every stage of the dementia journey. To learn more, enquire here or call 0800 588 222.

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