Gift Guides•November 12, 2023•By mysistermademebuyit
We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.
At the end of my dad’s life he had multiple disabilities, vascular dementia, and an autoimmune disorder where he did not have good use of his hands. While he was not in an advanced stage of dementia, the beginning stages were not only difficult for us as his caregivers, but also as his loved ones.
A few years ago I had posted about some of the things we were using to help him with daily routines and to reduce confusion. I am not an occupational therapist, or any type of expert in this area, but I did receive a lot DMs from followers with things that they found helpful for their loved ones. The lists below is a compilation of those items.
Fidget Blanket – Like the muff sensory toy, but this is one that lays flat on their lap or a table.
Art Therapy
Art is helpful for both mental stimulation and creative expression. Any type of art activity is great, but the just add water painting books are a lot less messy.
Angel Wrap Wearable Blanket – Unlike other wearable blankets, this one snaps on and off for ease. The good thing about a wearable blanket is that you will not have to worry about it falling off.
Easy to Read Clock – This was really important for my dad. He was often confused on the day and time, which was a source of stress for him. Having this clock and sticking to a nightly routine, like watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, were essential for all of us.
Easy to Use MP3 Player– This mp3 player allows you to load both music and audiobooks. It does not require wifi or Bluetooth.
Digital Picture Frame– Anyone who has access to the app can share videos and photos from anywhere with your loved one.
Daily Log– Keeping track of day to day activities in a journal can be a helpful tool, not only for your loved one, but also for you and anyone else that may be visiting with them.
Legacy Journal– If your loved one still has their long-term memory intact, this book would be a great gift to help them document their core memories that can be shared with you and other family members.
Programmable Landline Phone– This is an easy to use picture phone that can be pre-programmed with family and friend’s phone numbers.
