The best gifts for this holiday season may not be for everyone, especially those who do Alzheimer’s disease.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, seven million Americans live with the disease — and some gifts may not be appropriate depending on a person’s stage of dementia.
“Family members and friends may have to reconsider their situation gift giving strategies when shopping for someone with dementia,” Elizabeth Edgerly, Ph.D., senior director of Community Programs and Services at the Alzheimer’s Association of Chicago, said in a press release.
Not all gifts are appropriate for people with Alzheimer’s disease, the association noted. (iStock)
“Gifts that have made you a holiday hero in the past may no longer be a good fit for you,” she continued.
“You want to start by thinking about where the person is cognitively so you can choose a gift that he or she can use and enjoy.”
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The Alzheimer’s Association released the following list of gifts which are suitable for people at any stage of the disease.
Gift for early stage Alzheimer’s
Incorporating old photos of familiar faces into gifts can be helpful and thoughtful. (iStock)
1. Dry erase calendars and whiteboards with colorful markers are a fun way to write things down.
2. Label makers can help someone with memory problems stay organized and keep track of household items.
3. Gift vouchers for shared rides or favorite activities, you can keep your loved one engaged.
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4. GPS trackersin the form of watches, bracelets or key rings, can provide an individual with independence while keeping them safe.
5. “Memory” calendars can be filled with family photos and pre-marked with important dates.
Gifts for mid to late stages
The Alzheimer’s Association recommends soothing gifts such as blankets for people in the later stages of dementia. (iStock)
6. Music playlists can be curated with your loved one’s favorite artists and songs.
7. Comfortable, loose-fitting clothingsuch as sweatsuits, slip-on shirts, nightgowns, bathrobes and lace-free shoes, are easy to put on, take off and wash.
8. Framed photos or collages with the names of those present helps with identification.
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9. Soothing gifts such as a soft blanket or hand massage ball can help relieve stress and anxiety.
10. “Adaptive” eating accessories – such as anti-spill cups, plate protectors and cutlery with handles – promote independence at the dining table.
Gifts for engagement
Mentally stimulating gifts such as puzzles and activity books can be great for keeping the mind alert. (iStock)
11. A memory phone can save photos with names and contact information.
12. Puzzles and activity books stimulate the brain and promote cognitive acuity.
13. Card games and board games encourage involvement with others while keeping the mind sharp.
14. An outing going to a movie, concert, sporting event or museum can keep the recipient engaged and entertained.
15. DIY craftssuch as scrap booking or ornament painting, promotes involvement at home.
Things to pay attention to when shopping
When shopping for someone with dementia, Edgerly recommends considering two things about the recipient: what does this person like and what can this person do?
“It is important to match your gift to where the person is in the disease.”
“Lifelong passions, including hobbies and favorite activities, do not necessarily disappear when you are diagnosed with dementia,” she told Fox News Digital. “However, it is important to tailor your gift to where the person is in the disease.”
“For example, someone who was an avid golfer may no longer be able to play, but a picture book of golf courses or players may be a perfect fit.”
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Edgerly suggested thinking about “what brings them joy,” such as photos of relatives or pets from the past from which a tailor-made gift can be made.
“Make a mug, ornament or special notebook with those photos on the cover,” she recommended. “Do they have a list of favorite songs? Create a playlist for devices like Amazon (Alexa) or Google Home. Choose a gift that meets these interests, but in a way that is cognitively appropriate.”
According to an expert, one of the best gifts for someone with dementia is the gift of your time. (iStock)
Gifts that help support the person with dementia in a fun way are good options, the expert noted, as are items that provide comfort.
“The best gift I bought for my mother after she developed dementia was a giant box of individually wrapped whoopie pies (a dessert cake),” Edgerly shared.
“The adage that the best things in life are free is true.”
“She was able to give them out to all her friends and the care home staff. I made sure she had enough to give out. She had the biggest smile on her face as she handed them out to everyone.”
But one of the best gifts you can give someone with dementiaaccording to Edgerly, is the gift of your time.
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“Make plans to spend time with the person doing the things they enjoy,” she advised. “It could be playing a game, looking at old photos, watching a favorite movie or going out to dinner.”
“The adage that the best things in life are free is true. Spending time and engaging the person in a meaningful way can be the best gift of all.”
