The top gifts this holiday season may not be the best choice for everyone, especially those with Alzheimer’s disease.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and depending on the stage of dementia, some gifts may not be appropriate.
“Family and friends may need to rethink their gifting strategies when shopping for someone with dementia,” Dr. Elizabeth Edgeley, senior director of community programs and services at the Alzheimer’s Association of Chicago, said in a statement. No,” he said.
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“The gifts that may have made you a holiday hero in the past may no longer be appropriate,” she also said.
“Starting by considering where the person is cognitively, you can choose a gift that the person will use and enjoy.”
Not all gifts are appropriate for Alzheimer’s patients, the association noted. (St. Petersburg)
The Alzheimer’s Association has published the following list of gifts suitable for people at all stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
Gifts for early stage Alzheimer’s disease
Incorporating an old photo of a familiar face into your gift is thoughtful and helpful. (St. Petersburg)
1. Whiteboards and whiteboards with colorful markers are a great way to write things down.
2. Label makers can help people with memory problems stay organized and keep track of household items.
3. A gift card for a rideshare service or a favorite activity can grab your loved one’s attention.
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4. GPS trackers in the form of watches, bracelets, and keychains provide independence while keeping people safe.
5. The “Memory” calendar can contain family photos and mark important dates in advance.
Presents for mid to late term
Calming gifts, such as blankets, are recommended for people in the later stages of dementia. (St. Petersburg)
6. Edit music playlists with your loved one’s favorite artists and songs.
7. Loose, comfortable clothing such as sweatsuits, slip-on shirts, nightgowns, bathrobes, and laceless shoes are easy to put on and take off, and are easy to wash.
8. Framed photos or collages with attendees’ names can help with identification.
9. Comforting gifts, such as a soft blanket or a handheld massage ball, can help relieve stress and anxiety.
10. “Adaptive” dining accessories, such as spill-proof cups, plate guards, and silverware with handles, promote independence at the dinner table.
engagement gift
Mentally stimulating gifts like puzzles and activity books are great for awakening the mind. (St. Petersburg)
11. You can save photos with your name and contact information on your memory phone.
12. Puzzles and activity books stimulate the brain and promote cognitive acuity.
13. Card and board games keep your mind sharp while promoting engagement with others.
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14. Movies, concerts, sporting events, and outings to museums can keep the recipient engaged and entertained.
15. DIY crafts like scrapbooking and painting ornaments facilitate working from home.
What you need to know when shopping
Edgerly recommends considering two things about your recipients. It’s about what this person likes and what this person can do.
“It’s important to adapt your talents to the context of a person’s illness.”
“Lifelong passions, including hobbies and favorite activities, do not necessarily disappear when a person is diagnosed with dementia,” she told FOX News Digital. “But it is important to adapt your gifts to the context of the person’s illness.”
“For example, someone who was an avid golfer may no longer be able to play, but a picture book about golf courses and golf players may be a good fit.”
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Edgeley suggested thinking about “things that bring them joy,” such as custom gifts with photos of family members or past pets.
“Make mugs, ornaments, special notebooks, etc. with these photos on the cover,” she suggested. “Do they have a list of their favorite songs? Create a playlist for devices like Amazon (Alexa) or Google Home. Choose gifts that cater to these interests in a cognitively appropriate way.” .”
Experts say one of the best gifts you can give someone with dementia is the gift of your time. (St. Petersburg)
Experts pointed out that items that bring comfort, as well as gifts that help support people with dementia in a fun way, are also good options.
“The best gift I ever bought my mom after she developed dementia was a huge box of individually wrapped whoopie pies,” Edgeley said.
“The saying that the best things in life are free is true.”
“She was able to give it out to all her friends and the nursing home staff. I made sure she had plenty to give out. She handed it out to everyone with the biggest smile on her face.”
But Edgerly says one of the best gifts you can give someone with dementia is the gift of time.
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“Make plans to spend time together doing something the person likes,” she advised. “We play games, look at old photos, watch our favorite movies, and sometimes go out to eat.”
She said, “The adage that the best things in life are free is true. Taking the time to engage with someone in a meaningful way can be the greatest gift of all.”
