If you’ve ever shopped for a gift for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, you know how difficult it can be. You want to get them something they will genuinely like and be able to enjoy.

Although finding a gift is undoubtedly more challenging, we can’t deny how rewarding it is to get it right. Here are a few ideas to help you find a gift that your loved one with Alzheimer’s will cherish.

Gift Ideas for Adults with Alzheimer’s Disease

A Playlist of Their Favorite Music

Music can be a great gift for family members in any stage of Alzheimer’s disease. That’s because the part of the brain that processes music is typically not damaged by the disease. That means that dementia patients can often remember songs from their childhood.

On top of that, music can be extremely beneficial to those with Alzheimer’s. Music can:

  • Reduce agitation by calming them down.
  • Stimulate their memory.
  • Encourage them to move by clapping or dancing.

You can use music to trigger their memories. Create a playlist for your loved one. You can even have other family members contribute. Then watch as your loved one reacts to hearing their favorite oldies.

Colorful Gifts

People with dementia often have a harder time distinguishing between similar colors. This can make it difficult for them to see things like throw blankets that are too similar to the color of their chair, or bath towels that are the same color as the bathroom wall.

You can make their life easier by gifting these items in colors that stand out from their surroundings. Not only does this gift promote safety, but who wouldn’t enjoy a new set of soft towels?

Comfy Clothing

As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, your loved one will experience a lot of changes that will make it difficult for them to get dressed. Fiddling with buttons and zippers will no longer be realistic. These changes may require them to adopt a more comfortable style.

Unfortunately, many challenges come with Alzheimer’s that can make it difficult for your family member to purchase new clothes. As a result, many people with Alzheimer’s are forced to work with the clothes they have.

This makes comfy clothing a particularly great gift. Here are a few things to consider when shopping for your loved one:

  • Make sure the clothing is easy to get in and out of. Also consider the fact that an Alzheimer’s care provider may need to assist them, so you want to make sure they will be able to do so easily.
  • Avoid clothing that has small buttons or ties. They can have trouble with these.
  • Think about their personal style. Just because the clothing is comfortable doesn’t mean it has to be boring—unless, of course, that’s their style. Only purchase clothing that you think they will enjoy wearing.

A Fidget Blanket

Fidgeting is common for people with Alzheimer’s, especially in later stages of the disease. This is because the disease causes anxiety, and they have trouble releasing their stress. They often end up pulling at their clothes or rubbing their fingers together in efforts to calm themselves down.

This makes fidget blankets an excellent gift for people with Alzheimer’s. Fidget blankets have embellishments like loops, zippers, and buttons that provide them with something to do with their hands. They have been shown to reduce feelings of anxiety, sooth agitation, and provide stimulation.

Spending the Holidays with a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease

If you are still having trouble finding a gift for your loved one with Alzheimer’s, remember that the most important gift you can give them is your time. It is a gift you will never regret giving.

If you have any questions about a memory care facility or Alzheimer’s care communities, we would love to help. Contact one of our senior care advisors by calling 800-304-8061. Our support and guidance are always free!

Photo Credit:  Element5 Digital on Unsplash