As you consider gift ideas for your loved one, assess the stage of the disease your loved one is in when shopping for gifts. Below are some gift ideas by stage of the disease:
Early Stage Gifts
- Activity books, like crossword puzzles or strategy games.
- Classic movies and television shows than can stimulate your loved one.
- CD’s and music that allow your loved one to reminisce.
- A memorable photo album or calendar that features special family occasions and family photos.
- A memory phone that can store photos with the contact information and names of your loved one’s family and friends.
Middle Stage Gifts
- CD’s and music that allow your loved one to reminisce.
- A large type-faced clock that highlights both the date and time.
- Simple craft activities that inspire reminiscing.
- Photo album/scrapbook of past holidays gatherings.
Late Stage Gifts
Sensory stimulating gifts are important in the late stages of the disease. Gift ideas include:
- A fluffy bathrobe or a soft blanket in a favorite color.
- A stuffed animal or sensory board.
- Music and CD’s that feature songs from your loved one’s childhood or teenage years.
- Hand lotion in a familiar scent like vanilla.
Note: Vanilla-scented lotion can often stimulate one’s appetite. If your loved one has a decreased appetite, try massaging their hands with vanilla-scented lotion 30 minutes prior to mealtime. It could help increase their appetite.
Activity Ideas
Create activities around some of your loved one’s favorite memories or traditions. Be sensitive to their energy level and any special circumstances. Stay away from any activities that seem to evoke a negative or upsetting reaction ( e.g. loud noises in a movie). Let your loved one be the guide. Activity ideas could include:
- Singing holiday songs familiar to the person with Alzheimer’s disease.
- Watching a favorite holiday movie together.
- Baking/decorating cookies or wrapping gifts.
- Read aloud your loved one’s favorite poem or Christmas story.