Perfect gift ideas for people with dementia

You as activities directors, other healthcare professionals and caregivers will be buying or suggesting gifts for people with dementia

Here are a few grand suggestions:

First on the list of gifts for people is a book by Susan Berg called Adorable Photographs of Our Baby -- Meaningful, Mind-Stimulating Activities and More for the Memory Challenged, Their Loved Ones and Involved Professionals, This book features baby photographs that seniors with dementia love. This book shares a plethora of idea sand resources for you.

Another gift a dementia person will fancy is a classic musical video or DVD. Your mother will enjoy watching something from the good old days and singing the songs played throughout the picture.Here are a few suggestions: Singin’ in the Rain, Meet Me in St. Louis, or Shall We Dance

Next is a sing a long CD or audio cassette of their favorite songs. There is a series of these called, Old Time Favorites by Nancy Pitkin

You may want to get a sing a long video where you loved one can see and hear performers singing songs they love. A good one is, Sing-Along with Phil Bernardi: Songs We Know and Love

Here is another idea. Give some hand lotion. Any kind will do. Just be aware of any allergies or pain issues she might have. If she can tolerate it, those with a pleasant scent work well. Give her a relaxing hand massage talking about how good the hand massage feels and maybe about the good old days, as well

If you cannot afford or do not have time to get these gifts, give the gift of yourself. No matter how hard it is for you to visit mom, she will appreciate your company even though she may not be able to express it. Take her for a walk, sing some of your favorite songs together, give her a hand massage. Just share some quality time with her. Both of you will feel better. Do remember to be upbeat animated and excited about visiting. No arguing, please. .

A phone call or a card will do if there is no way you can visit in person. At least they will know you are thinking of them. Then visit on another day.

So no matter what you do, do not forget people with dementia because it will make you and them feel good. What could be better than that!

Order any of the products mentioned in the article at Amazon.com. Order the book, Adorable Photographs of Our Baby -- Meaningful, Mind-Stimulating Activities and More for the Memory Challenged, Their Loved Ones and Involved Professionals, at Amazon or at Activity Directors Network