Finding The Right Gift for Loved Ones Living With Dementia.

written From The Heart

Lynda Heaslip

Finding the right gift for a loved one living with dementia can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. While your "presence" matters more than "presents"- simplicity is the key when deciding on the best physical gift for your loved one. Gifts that bring comfort, familiarity, safety and meaning; ones that support connection, dignity, and peace—no matter what stage your loved one is in.

Use this checklist to choose items that match your loved one’s current abilities, bring joy, and help create moments of calm in daily life.

---

Early-Stage Dementia

(Support where independence is still strong)

Helpful & Home-Friendly

☐ Large-print calendars or day clocks

☐ Easy-to-use remote controls

☐ Digital photo frames preloaded with family images

☐ Life story or picture books to enjoy together (without pressure to recall)

Comfort & Clothing

☐ Light or medium-weight weighted throw

☐ Soft clothing with simple closures

☐ Non-slip socks

☐ Mild, familiar scents (vanilla, lavender)

Engagement

☐ Music playlists from their favorite decades

☐ Simple, familiar board games

☐ Large-piece puzzles

☐ Gentle, quiet outings

---

Middle-Stage Dementia

(Focus on sensory comfort and simplified activities)

Sensory Comfort

☐ Fidget blankets or activity aprons

☐ Soft tactile items

☐ Textured lap quilts

☐ Mild aromatherapy (no candles)

Adaptive Clothing

☐ Velcro-closing tops and pants

☐ Soft robes or cardigans

☐ Easy-on slippers or shoes

Music & Meaningful Items

☐ Pre-loaded music players

☐ Simple photo books

☐ Familiar hymns or Scripture cards

Activity-Friendly Gifts

☐ Adult coloring books

☐ Water-painting books

☐ Simple craft kits

☐ Large-piece puzzles

For Those in Care Facilities

☐ Soft décor for their room

☐ Comfort plush

☐ Personalized blankets

☐ Facility-approved snacks

---

Late-Stage Dementia

(Comfort, sensory support, and emotional safety)

Comforting Items

☐ Soft, warm blankets

☐ Plush comfort animals

☐ Simple music players pre-set to soothing playlists

☐ Gentle, mild-scented hand lotions

Sensory Support

☐ Soft pillows or cushions

☐ Warm-glow nightlights

☐ Familiar, gentle scents

Personal and Room Items

☐ Photo books with large images

☐ Personalized room or door signs

☐ Favorite-pattern pillowcases

☐ Small sensory pillows or soft fidget items

Adaptive Clothing

☐ Adaptive wear designed for dignity and ease

☐ Non-slip soft slippers

---

General Checklist (All Stages)

✔ Always Good Choices

☐ Photo calendars

☐ Large-print devotionals

☐ Hymn or calming music playlists

☐ Favorite safe snacks

✔ Avoid Overstimulation

☐ Loud electronics

☐ Flashing or bright lights

☐ Strong fragrances

☐ Complex items with many steps

---

Presence Over Presents

The most meaningful gift of all—whether in person or from afar; is YOU- your presence- light, happy, and cheerful (regardless of how much you long for the days gone by). Long after the wrapping is gone, your love made visible is what lingers in the hearts of your loved ones,; not gifts

When You Can Be There in Person

☐ Sit with them

☐ Hold a hand

☐ Read a Bible story or Scripture

☐ Sing a hymn or play gentle music

☐ Look through a photo book together

☐ Offer calm companionship, lunch, or tea

When You Cannot Be There Physically

☐ Phone call (your voice alone brings comfort—even if they cannot respond)

☐ Zoom or video call (simple, gentle, brief)

-staff in facility care are always happy to assist with this. Just ask

☐ Record yourself reading a letter, prayer, or Scripture

☐ Send a playlist you’ve curated for them

☐ Mail a handwritten letter to be read aloud by staff or a family member

Wishing you and your loved ones a peace filled holiday season ...From The Heart ❤️