The term dementia is broadly used and refers to “a general term for the loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other cognitive abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life.” Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia. Parkinson’s Disease, vascular, and other causes can also present with dementia symptoms.
Whether a loved one is newly diagnosed or transitioning to a new stage, finding meaningful ways to engage, support, and connect through gifts can feel overwhelming. At the Restoracy, we believe every person, regardless of memory loss, deserves comfort, care, and joy during the holiday season.
Explore this gift guide for present ideas for each stage of dementia—early, middle, and late. Rooted in information from trusted sources (like the Alzheimer’s Association), every suggestion complements the needs of patients with memory decline.
Gift ideas for early stage dementia.
In the early stages of dementia, people may still have a high level of independence, although they may struggle with memory loss and changes in cognitive function. For this stage, gifts that reinforce memory, provide stimulation, or bring a sense of routine are ideal.
Digital calendar clocks
Help your loved one maintain independence and reduce disorientation with a digital clock displaying the time, date, and day of the week. It can feel stressful to lose track of time and in the early stage of dementia symptoms.
Customized music playlists
Whether senior loved ones feel comfortable using Spotify or you’ll need to dust off your collection of CDs, a custom playlist with an easy set-up makes for a great gift. Creating a playlist of favorite songs from your loved one’s teens and 20s encourages recall of long-term memory. Research also shows that music can help reduce agitation and anxiety in people with Alzheimer’s across all stages.
Photo books
Photo books provide a wonderful way to reminisce, share stories, and stay connected with friends and family. Theme photo books by year, person, event, location, or any other way that’s special and meaningful to your loved one.
Pill organizers with alarms
For senior loved ones, dementia may not be their only health concern. Pill organizers with alarms support independence with consistent reminders to take needed medication. Many different kinds of pill organizers exist, from self-dispensing to simple digital talking reminder tools to use with existing low-tech pill organizers.
Puzzles and brain games
From word searches to jigsaw puzzles, games may help slow memory loss and improve cognitive functioning. While more research is needed and games won’t entirely prevent or cure dementia symptoms, they offer an opportunity for family connection and socializing. Social isolation is a key risk factor for cognitive decline so creating opportunities for people to connect over games provides a convenient and fun way for friends and family of all ages to support seniors.
Gift ideas for middle stage dementia.
In this phase, individuals may need more support with daily activities and may experience changes in mood and communication. Gifts that provide sensory stimulation, comfort, and help with self-expression are particularly meaningful.
Sensory fidget blankets and busy boards
With various textures, zippers, and buttons, sensory fidget blankets and busy boards provide an opportunity for a loved one to engage their hands and focus their attention in a soothing way. These can be purchased or handmade, offering opportunities for easy customization.
Adult coloring books and art supplies
Many people find coloring and artistic expression relaxing and enjoyable. Coloring books and easy to use art supplies (like paper, markers, pastels, and coloring pencils) provide opportunities for creative engagement individually or collaboratively. Select coloring books based on interest and with attention to visual acuity.
Weighted blankets
Weighted blankets, which provide gentle pressure, can help soothe restlessness and encourage relaxation. Some people with anxiety use weighted blankets to support better sleep, and anxiety and stress can increase with dementia.
Comfy and easy to put on clothes
In the middle stages of dementia, some people may experience struggles with getting dressed. A wardrobe filled with comfortable, easy to put on clothes like pants without buttons or zippers, can help maintain independence around dressing.
DVDs
From favorite movies and TV shows to nature documentaries, DVDs make an excellent gift to support reminiscence (like those photo books!) and provide soothing stimulation. For later stages of dementia, nature documentaries or relaxing compilations of natural landscapes may work better as a loved one loses the ability to follow a story.
Gift ideas for late stage dementia.
In the later stages of dementia, a focus on comfort and sensory experiences becomes even more essential as memory, attention, and ability to communicate lessen further. Choose items that don’t require complex interactions but instead bring a sense of warmth and familiarity.
Oil diffusers or scented lotions
Soothing scents like lavender, vanilla, or a loved one’s favorite scent are great choices. Familiar scents may help reduce agitation. If a loved one is comfortable with physical touch, a gentle hand massage with scented lotion can provide the comfort of physical touch, too.
Soft stuffed animals and dolls
Some people with late stage dementia find comfort in holding or carrying soft, plush animals or dolls. After verbal communication becomes too difficult or impossible, tactile experiences continue to play an important (and larger) role in communication.
Music and nature sounds
Just like in earlier stages, loved ones with late stage dementia may enjoy favorite music. From CDs to white noise machines, soothing nature sounds also make a great gift.
Tips to pick the right gift for any stage of dementia.
At the Restoracy, we understand how important it is to provide thoughtful and meaningful support for loved ones at every stage of their journey. Thoughtful gifts don’t just make the holiday season brighter—they create lasting moments of connection and comfort. Gifts that focus on comfort, familiarity, and simplicity while engaging sight, smell, and touch create opportunity for connection and calm.
Restoring familiarity at the Restoracy.
Each person living with dementia travels their own unique path. The progression from stage to stage isn’t a bright line and the time an individual spends in each stage is also unique. Exploring memory care options in earlier stages can ease the transition and help your loved one settle in more easily at a care facility.
Schedule a tour to discover how the Restoracy brings comfort and familiarity to life through attentive care and thoughtful details. Visit our intimate home memory care setting, where we can answer all your questions and provide a glimpse into life at the Restoracy.