Best Gifts for Someone with Dementia or Alzheimer's

Choosing gifts for someone with dementia or Alzheimer's can be challenging. This year we have put together a guide to help you select gift options suitable for your loved one at almost any stage of their illness; from medication management tools in the early stages to soothing fidget and sensory items for the later stages. We hope you find it useful!

* Disclaimer: Prices accurate at the time of publication.

Gifts for Daily Living

Hero Medication Dispenser, Manager, and Pill Organizer

Lively Jitterbug Cell Phones for Seniors
These dementia-friendly phones make staying in touch with friends and family easier. Designed with a single screen containing large, easy to read text and icons means less confusion for your loved one. And their Urgent Response and Nurse On-Call features give caregivers peace of mind.

Plans as low as $19.99/month including Unlimited Talk & Text and no long-term contracts
100% U.S.-based caring team available for emergencies both big and small day or night
Single screen makes it easier to find the features they need
Powerful speaker for those with reduced hearing
Long-lasting battery means less charging
Arthritis-friendly voice typing feature

Cost: $75
Buy Now at Walmart

Relish Dementia Radio & Music Player

This simple to use radio and music player makes a great gift for anyone who struggles with technology. Studies have shown that music can be powerful tool to help those living with dementia connect past and present, reduce stress and even delay cognitive decline.

"Thank God we found this! It's simple and easy to use with large buttons that are unlikely to be pressed by mistake as well as an accessible display at the back that allows us to easily save my Dad's favourite stations. The customizable cards are a nice touch, and the box comes with extra cards for variation. Despite struggling with most simple tasks, my Dad is able to use this with little to no help! Watching him enjoy his favourite songs is a real delight and of course a great comfort to him. Absolutely recommend it!"

Designed to bring joy to those living with dementia
Simple, high color contrast controls easy to use for those with visual impairment and reduced dexterity
Reduces confusion and promotes independence
USB port allows you to add your own playlist
Hidden back panel to customize preset buttons
No mention of dementia on any of the packaging

Cost: $150
Buy Now at Walmart

Echo Show with Alexa Voice Assistant and Video Calling
This hands-free, voice-controlled device makes it easier for your loved one to stay connected to friends and family. Make video calls, listen to music, get weather reports, read the news, and more. These smart devices never get tired or frustrated when asked the same question over and over again on repeat and can help ease loneliness for those still living alone. Caregivers will love the call "drop in" feature that allows them speak with their loved one without them physically answering (set up required).

*Amazon offers other Echo models ranging in feature, screen size, and price.

High quality speakers offer premium sound
Connect to other compatible smart devices to make life easier for those with mobility issues
Voice-activated personal companion that can help ease loneliness
Built with multiple layers of privacy control to protect your privacy

Cost: $170 - $250
Buy Now at Amazon

Picture Phones
These simplified phones make it easier for anyone living with memory loss to connect to family and friends. When regular phones become too confusing or complicated, try switching out your loved one's phone with one that requires nothing more than the touch of a single button.

Pictures can be placed on each button
Ringer switch with Hi/Lo/Off
Bright LED lights for incoming calls
10 Two-touch or 10 one-touch memory keys
Red 911 emergency key

Cost: $30 - $40
Buy Now at Amazon

Remote Controls
Specifically designed for seniors, these devices have large color-coded tactile buttons to make it easier for with memory issues to access their favorite channels.

Easy to Navigate - With 6 buttons that are large and color coded, it’s ideal users that are partially sighted or elderly. No more complex and clunky TV remotes.
Only takes 15 minutes to set up. The lock feature prevents anyone undoing all your hard work.
Eliminates Useless Channels - Save up to 30 channels so you don’t have to wade through hundreds of channels you’ll never watch.

Cost: $30 - $35
Buy Now at Amazon

Unforgettable Day Clocks
Traditional clocks can be confusing, especially for the elderly, people with vision impairment or those struggling with dementia, memory loss, Alzheimer's, and other degenerative diseases. With simple displays, anyone can read the time, day of the week, and date on these clocks to help them keep track of time.

Battery Backup in case of power outage
Shows time of day (Morning, Afternoon, Night, Evening)
Includes Medical Reminders
Automatically Increases/Decreases Brightness
6+ Languages Included
Choice of 4 Alarm Modes

Cost: $45 - $55
Buy Now at Amazon

Power of Red Complete Adaptive Dinnerware Setting for Alzheimer's and Dementia
Studies have shown that using red dinnerware increases eating for individuals with Alzheimer's and dementia. The high-contrast between these dishes and utensils and the table makes it easier to recognize foods and helps reduce the daily struggle of getting your loved one to eat. The oversize design and bendability of the utensils make using them a breeze, while suction cups and rimmed sides on the plate and bowl help reduce spills.

Suction cups and rimmed sides on plate and bowl help reduce spills
Nose cut out on cup for those who have difficulty tilting their head back or swallowing
Bendable utensils make it easier for anyone with decreased motor function
Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning

Cost: $37 - $45
Buy Now at Walmart

Silvert's Stay Dressed Alzheimer's & Dementia Jumpsuits
If your loved one compulsively undresses these anti-strip jumpsuits could save you a lot of time and frustration. Caregivers will appreciate the single long zipper that extends to just below the knees making assisted dressing easier. The dome snaps at the neck make it harder for your loved one to disrobe unassisted preserving dignity for those in assisted living facilities and helping reduce toileting-related mishaps. These jumpsuits are exceptionally well made, soft, comfortable and come in a range of flattering designs for both men and women.

Strategically placed closures make unassisted disrobing difficult
Designed to make assisted dressing and undressing easier
Made of soft polyester-cotton knit for comfort and durability
Machine washable

Cost: $55 - $75
Buy Now at Walmart

Gifts to Reduce Anxiety and Stress

Weighted Blankets
Great for reducing stress by imitating the feeling of being held, these can make your loved one feel safe and secure.

Wide variety of weights to choose from.
Great for reducing stress by feeling like a warm embrace.
Aides in falling asleep.

Cost: $90 - $110
Buy Now at Amazon

Companion Pets
With lifelike bodies that gently "breathe" when batteries are installed. These adorable furry friends bring comfort and companionship to those living with dementia. "As Alzheimer's disease progresses, the need to nurture, love and be loved increases." American Association of Geriatric Psychiatrists

Adoption Certificate Included
Collar with Pet Tag Attached
Grooming Brush Included
Multiple Cat and Dog Breeds

Cost: $30 - $40
Buy Now at Amazon

Fidget Toys and Blankets
Restless hands can lead to increased anxiety. Twiddling and fidgeting provides a soothing sensation for those with Alzheimer's, dementia, or autism. The act of using their hands in a controlled way helps calm while simultaneously aiding manual dexterity and memory retention.

TwiddlePup

Helps retain fine motor skills
Soft-plastic orbit ball tethered on the inside.
Multi-colored wooden beads, textured ribbons, a sealed buckskin crackle pouch, and a Velcro pull patch to exercise hands and mind alike.
Ideal for home as well as memory care facilities.

Cost: $50 - $60
Buy Now at Amazon

Memory Loss Fidget Pillow

Great for seniors with Alzheimer's or Dementia that need extra stimulation
Keeps hands busy and helps caregivers through the difficult times of the day
Lacing, buckling and zipping activities
Buttoned pocket, rings to clip favorite items and more!
Has an assortment of fabrics for tactile stimulation

Cost: $55 - $65
Buy Now at Amazon

Handyman Magnetic Picture Board
These Relish Magnetic Picture Boards are great for people with mid-late stage dementia. Designed with bold colors to aid visibility and large, easy-to-handle pieces with powerful magnets, this kit is a great way to spark conversations. Your loved one can plan upcoming DIY projects, or simply enjoy the task of organizing their toolbox.

Great for seniors with mid-late stage Alzheimer's
Ideal activity for those who struggle to complete puzzles
Providing a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment
Retro images in bold colors aid with visibility
Promotes independence and keeps hands busy
No mention of dementia on any of the packaging or pieces

Cost: $30
Buy Now at Walmart

Nature Scenes
These DVDs are filled with relaxing imagery and soothing music to calm and relax. With various seasons and settings, there is something for everyone.

Features calming music
HD Nature scenes
Automatic looping feature
Breathtaking scenery
Six beautiful films are set to specially composed tracks from talented musician Denise Young

Cost: $15 - $20
Buy Now at Amazon

Relaxing Underwater Scenes
These underwater scenes will take you on a dive to explore spectacular coral reefs and float with the turtles! Accompanied by peaceful music and the sound of ocean waves, this will help entertain and relax all ages.

HD Quality
One Hour long virtual diving experience
Filled with eye-catching creatures
Relaxing Music and Scenes

Cost: $5 - $10
Buy Now at Amazon

Companion Dolls
Studies show “doll therapy” can improve the wellbeing of dementia patients in a number of ways. Designed exclusively for dementia patients, this cherubic doll engages seniors by giving them an object of nurturing and affection.

Weighted (3 lbs) to provide therapeutic pressure
Eyes close when doll is “asleep” like a real baby (prevents agitation)
Natural lavender scent promotes relaxation
Removable clothing can be machine washed and even changed to different outfit

Cost: $40 - $45
Buy Now at Amazon

Gifts to Enjoy with Your Loved One

Reusable Water Painting
Aquapaint is a unique and reusable painting product for people with dementia. Simply paint water onto the sheets and watch the image appear. As the water dries the image will fade ready to be used time and again, lasting over 1 year with daily use. Each set comes with five different images that have been carefully selected to help start conversation when the painting is complete.

Simply paint water onto the canvas and watch the image magically appear
After each use the image will fade back to white to be fully reusable, lasting over 1 year with daily use
5 vibrant reminiscence images are suitable for people with visual impairment and to stimulate memories and conversation

Cost: $20 - $25
Buy Now at Amazon

Hobbies Conversation Game by Relish
A game the whole family can play! Inspired by cognitive stimulation therapy for dementia, this game challenges players to share differences, commonalities, and opinions across well-recognised hobbies.

Designed for someone in the early stages of dementia
Large, easy-to-use pieces great for people with dexterity issues
No mention of dementia on any of the packaging
Makes a perfect gift!

Cost: $18
Buy Now at Walmart

Match the shapes
A great game specially designed for people with Dementia and Alzheimer's it can be both relaxing and also helps to stimulate the brain and aids in cognition.

Age Appropriate, Not Childish
Brightly Colored Tiles
Easy to follow instructions

Cost: $20 - $25
Buy Now at Amazon

Expression Cards
This game includes a set of 48 laminated cue cards each with an expression missing one word along with the laminated answer cards. Designed for seniors with Dementia and Alzheimer's it is easy to play and helps create a sense of accomplishment as they complete each saying.

Easy to follow instructions
Fun to play
Great for all stages of Dementia/Alzheimer's

Cost: $20 - $25
Buy Now at Amazon

Classic Vehicles Aquapaint Water Painting Pack by Relish
This aquapaint water painting kit comes with five vibrant images sure to please car enthusiasts. Simply brush a wet paint brush over each canvas to reveal the image. After each use the images will fade back to white when dry and can be reused over and over again.

Researched and co-designed by people with dementia
Designed for all stages of dementia
Reusable, lasting up to one year with daily use
Minimal preparation or clean-up required

Cost: $24.99
Buy Now at Walmart

Painting Books
Brush water over the stylish illustrations to see vibrant colors magically appear, revealing the Snow Queen's ice palace, a ride across the night sky, a tangled forest and more.

An enchanting retelling of Hans Christian Andersen's The Snow Queen.
Fifteen Pages of intricate black and white scenes to paint.
Fold-out back cover prevents colors running onto the page beneath.

Cost: $10 - $15
Buy Now at Amazon

Reminiscence Cards
Reminiscence Cards provide the perfect cue to sit and relax together, and tell the stories of your life. This series of pictures will spark conversation and help you reminisce together about joys and memories.

Researched and co-designed by people with dementia
Designed for all stages of dementia
Great activity for the whole family to enjoy together

Cost: $18
Buy Now at Walmart

Ungame for Seniors
Take seniors down memory lane with the non-competitive game that encourages conversation and communication. A fun ice-breaker or lead-in to a serious exchange of thoughts, feelings, and ideas.