{"id":6668,"date":"2019-11-30T13:21:59","date_gmt":"2019-11-30T18:21:59","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/assistinghands.com\/34\/?p=6668"},"modified":"2020-01-15T11:47:43","modified_gmt":"2020-01-15T16:47:43","slug":"best-gifts-for-loved-ones-with-alzheimers-and-dementia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/assistinghands.com\/34\/florida\/palmbeach\/blog\/best-gifts-for-loved-ones-with-alzheimers-and-dementia\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Gifts for Loved Ones with Alzheimer\u2019s and Dementia"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Best<\/p>\n

The holiday season is a time of joy and coming together \u2013 the perfect time of the year to spend with loved ones, have fun with family and friends, and show the people who matter to you how much you care for them and how happy you are to have them in your life. And what better way to do that than to give your dear ones thoughtful gifts that convey your affection and appreciation for them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Finding the perfect gift may not be easy \u2013 especially when you\u2019re looking for a gift for someone who is in need of dementia or Alzheimer\u2019s care<\/a>. People living with the disease may not be able to use (or may no longer enjoy) many of the items they would have liked before. The options dwindle as the condition progresses and finding an appropriate gift becomes a real challenge.<\/span><\/p>\n

Yet, a meaningful, useful, and heartfelt gift can be therapeutic for someone with dementia \u2013 it brings comfort and cheer, provides positive mental stimulation, and helps the person maintain a sense of independence and dignity.<\/span><\/p>\n

But how do you choose the right present? What should you give someone with dementia? Here are some insightful gift ideas for Alzheimer\u2019s patients to help you find the best present for your loved one with the disease.<\/span><\/p>\n

What to Look for When Shopping for Gifts for People with Dementia<\/span><\/h2>\n

\"Best<\/p>\n

The best gifts for seniors with dementia are reminiscent of love and family. Yet, it all depends on the person\u2019s character traits, lifestyle, and environment. You should choose a gift based on the personality, habits, abilities, and preferences of your loved one. Look for:<\/span><\/p>\n

Items that are related to old hobbies and interests (or even to your loved one\u2019s career) \u2013 sports memorabilia, craft items, professional magazines, music discs, etc. Even if your friend or relative can no longer participate in their once favorite activities, such things are certain to bring them pleasure and happy memories;<\/span><\/p>\n

Items that are related to your loved one\u2019s home town and childhood \u2013 a book in their mother tongue, an old photograph of their birth town, a game they used to play with their friends back in the day, etc. People struggling with dementia usually have vivid memories of the past and such gifts will feel very personal and heartwarming;<\/span><\/p>\n

Items that promote creative expression and give a sense of accomplishment \u2013 puzzles, craft supplies, books, etc.;<\/span><\/p>\n

Items that help your loved one maintain an independent life \u2013 calendar clocks, picture phones, automatic medication dispensers, etc.;<\/span><\/p>\n

Items that can make your loved one\u2019s life easier \u2013 automatic nightlights, comfortable clothes and shoes, gift cards for services and meals, etc.;<\/span><\/p>\n

Items that are appropriate for the stage of the disease your friend or family member is currently in \u2013 gifts for people with mild dementia can be similar to what you would have given them if they didn\u2019t have the disorder, but in later stages of the disease it\u2019s important to pick sensory stimulating gifts that could bring back some of their memories or comforting gifts that could soothe their anxieties and make them feel better.<\/span><\/p>\n

Whether your loved one is in the early, middle, or late stage of dementia, you\u2019ll certainly want to get them something useful that they would enjoy. Below are some gift ideas for Alzheimer\u2019s patients by stage that can help you find an appropriate Christmas present for a relative or friend with the disease this holiday season.<\/span><\/p>\n

Gifts for Dementia Patients by Stages of the Disease<\/span><\/h2>\n

\"Gifts<\/p>\n

There is a great difference in the abilities and level of memory loss in people at different stages of dementia. When searching for a gift for someone living with the disease, you need to be careful to pick a present that matches their needs and current condition.<\/span><\/p>\n

Gifts for Early Stage Dementia<\/span><\/h3>\n

In the early stage of the disease, it\u2019s important to keep your loved one active and socially engaged. Opt for gifts that provide mental stimulation and promote a sense of independence and self-worth:<\/span><\/p>\n