Gifts don’t always need to be tangible. In fact, the best gift is often your time and attention. This season, get inspired to give the gift of an experience instead of a present for a loved one with dementia.
“We often hear adult children and caregivers say that they don’t know what to get their loved one with memory loss over the holidays,” says John Moniz, Executive Director of Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham, a memory care assisted living community in Hingham, MA.
“While there are plenty of great gift ideas that they could enjoy no matter their stage of memory loss, experiences may be one of the best things you can give, especially when the plans are well thought out, deeply researched and based around your loved one’s likes, interests and current abilities.”
Why do experiences make perfect gifts for seniors with dementia? The secret lies in quality time and the ability to reminisce. Depending on what activity you plan to enjoy, these outings can be a great opportunity to bond, connect with who your loved one is now as well as who they once were, and can be a great way to change up a routine without being too drastic. Simply put, it can be fun for all!
Making the Most of Your Experience Gift
If you’re considering gifting your loved one with an experience this season, there are some things that you’ll need to keep in mind to ensure success. Consider some of the points our experts have shared below.
- Choose the right activity. Outings for seniors with dementia can be difficult, but they don’t need to be, especially if you choose an activity that your loved one is passionate about. Perhaps they love museums, music or art. Plan an outing around that. If they don’t love being around crowds of people, choose a quieter, more private event.
- Plan for the right time of day. If your loved one’s routine is based around waking at a certain time and eating at the same time each day, don’t plan for an activity that will disrupt their daily routine in a negative way.
- Adjust your expectations. People with Alzheimer’s disease may not react like you think they will – no matter how well you’ve planned your outing. Those in the early stages may be more excited and thrilled to spend time making meaningful moments, but those in the later stages may be more nervous. Be sure to adjust your expectations so you both have a good time.
Get Inspired with These Experience Gifts
Whether you’re planning to enjoy these experience gifts with your loved one with memory loss or you plan to invite family members to partake in these activities for seniors, check out these experience gifts for memory loss that are sure to create meaningful moments.
- Visit a museum. Museums can be fun for older adults with memory loss. In fact, many have designated time for seniors and times set aside for those with memory loss. Our favorite kind? A discovery museum complete with hands-on activities.
- Try a class. Does your loved one enjoy learning new things or trying something different? Do they love enjoying a greater sense of purpose and exploring their passions? A class can be a great way to do that. If they used to dance, consider joining a dance class together. If their passion is painting, get involved in an art class. Do they love to knit or sew? Volunteer to make blankets with a group. There are so many possibilities for older adults with memory loss.
- Attend a movie matinee. Is your loved one’s favorite movie playing at a local theater? Grab some snacks and get settled in to enjoy a movie together.
- Enjoy a sensory experience at a cafe. From the aroma of coffee and teas to beautiful, calming music playing overhead, opportunities to try delicious foods and the ability to simply watch people go by and chat – cafes can be a great way to enjoy an afternoon.
- Go to a concert. Music is a great way for those with memory loss to connect. Whether you attend a concert of a musician they love, enjoy a little live music or dance like no one’s watching, this is a great way for dementia patients to enjoy a little therapeutic release.
Do you still want your loved one to have something to unwrap? Consider purchasing tickets and placing them in a nice box. Are you planning an art class? Purchase some brushes to use during and have them unwrap them. This can give your loved one something to look forward to while adding an element of surprise and fun!
Need some additional inspiration for holiday gifts for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease? Want to plan effective activities for people with dementia? We’re here to help. Simply contact us to learn more today or attend an upcoming support group to chat with others.
Exceptional Care & Fulfilling Lifestyle
Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham provides memory care assisted living that is comfortable, positive, safe and engaging. Exclusively dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, our community offers a wellness-focused lifestyle that promotes dignity and individual preferences. Our memory care professionals receive specialized and ongoing training designed to help residents maximize their independence in a secure, calm environment – enriching the lives of our residents every day.
Inspiring Programs for All Stages
No matter what level of care or service is needed, residents and families can rest assured that our care and life-enrichment programs address the various stages of memory decline, allowing residents the opportunity to age in place.
Dedicated Memory Care
At Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham, our services are designed to recognize and adapt to the unique challenges and individuality of each resident while ensuring comfort and safety. We believe in a full-service approach to care and provide a high level of personalized attention for residents in various stages of memory loss.
Bridges® by EPOCH is New England’s largest stand-alone memory care assisted living provider.
Contact us today to learn more.