Making Daily Activities Meaningful 

Daily tasks may be more difficult for someone with memory loss, but familiar activities support confidence, connection, and routine. 

Planning Activities 

• Choose activities that your loved one enjoys. 
• Plan recurring activities for the same time each day. 
• Help your loved one start the task. Offer simple guidance. 
• Choose things you both can enjoy together. 

Activity Ideas

• Around the House – Wash dishes, sweep, sort laundry or mail, set the table. 
• Cooking and Baking – Gather and measure ingredients, mix and pour, or read the recipe out loud. 
• Exercise – Take walks, ride a stationary bike, lift soup cans, follow along with videos, or toss a softball. 
• Music and Dance – Sing, dance, attend a music event, or listen to favorite songs. 
• Pets – Feed, groom, walk, or hold a pet. 
• Gardening – Plant, water, prune, or pick flowers and vegetables. 
• Time with Children – Read together, play simple games, walk in the park, attend events, or talk about childhood memories. 

Top Tip: Getting creative with art and music-based activities can be great for somebody with dementia. These activities, even as simple as listening to old songs together or doing a basic craft, engage the brain and can spark memories for an individual with memory loss. Always remember to tailor the activity to their abilities. If they need your help to paint, to hold a brush, for example, that is still something that you can do together. 

FAQs

How long should activities last for my loved one?

Start small and let your loved one’s interest level guide the timing. 

What if they lose interest quickly?

Have a few backup activities ready. Switch tasks when needed.

Can activities help reduce behaviors like agitation?

Yes. Engaging the person in something familiar can reduce restlessness and expend energy. This reduces other challenging behaviors like wandering or general agitation.