Christmas Present Ideas for your Loved One with Dementia
Buying meaningful Christmas presents for someone with Dementia can feel daunting. We want to bring joy, not overwhelm or upset them. Too many gifts, items that are difficult to use, or photos of loved ones who have passed away can all cause distress. Strong smells may also be overpowering.
Below are some ideas that may offer comfort, support independence, ensure dignity, or help your loved one connect with memories and those around them.
Gifts should reflect the abilities that the person still has. You could check with their Carer which pastimes they still enjoy for example. Consider:
Puzzles, crosswords, adult colouring books or art materials.
Gardening equipment, or low-maintenance plants.
Photo albums with meaningful photos or a digital photo frame.
Simple music players with pre-loaded playlists, or easy-to-use radios.
Jewellery featuring photos or meaningful themes (for example, a horse-themed charm for a horse lover).
Vouchers for activities you can enjoy together, such as golf, cinema or a day out.
A Dementia clock showing the day and time of day (morning, afternoon, evening) in large, clear letters. This helps prevent sundowning—the increased confusion that can occur late in the day—and helps the person stay orientated.
Comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and remove.
Sensor-activated night lights for safer movement if they wake at night.
GPS trackers worn as watches or bracelets.
Sensory gifts like a favourite gentle scent, or make a scent box for them linked to their hobbies (for example if they love gardening with sachets of dried lavender, rose scent, rosemary etc.)
Vouchers for shared experiences—a museum visit or a walk in a beautiful park.
A day spent making something together, such as a scrapbook or Christmas stockings.
If mobility and independence are significantly affected, you could consider:
A lightweight weighted blanket.
A life story book containing key details: name, special people, childhood and adult memories, important life events, work history, likes and dislikes, hobbies, meaningful dates, and personal preferences (clothing style, hairstyle, beliefs).
Cosy socks, slippers or a fluffy bathrobe.
A personalised photo mug.
A memory box with meaningful items such as photos, familiar scents or small keepsakes.
