Holiday Gifts for Loved Ones with Alzheimer's

In light of the festivities of the holiday season, I am often asked what gifts are best for loved ones who have Alzheimer’s. There are many ways to enhance personal meaning in the act of giving:

• Music can go a long way in eliciting memories, reminiscing, singing along with, or just enjoying the moment. Purchasing a favorite CD, tape, DVD concert series or burning a copy of various songs that resonates with a loved one can add some joy. Music that is most deeply treasured can create a calming atmosphere, activate neural pathways in the brain and lighten up the day, especially for those with anxiety, depression, wandering tendencies, or are hostile. It also gives the chance of spending time together and talking about what the song reminds him/her of; why she loves Dean Martin or Elvis Presley so much. What fond memory is recalled when he hears, "It's Now or Never?"

• Scrapbooks/autobiography books: Creating a scrapbook or recording personal history in a personalized documentation book could offer further insight into the family tree, and also provide fond memories through treasured items (i.e. familiar photographs, maps of countries/cities previously lived in or visited, pieces of jewelry, ribbons, etc.). A wonderful item to reflect upon and share with others.

• Art: Providing dignified adult art materials–creating together can enhance meaning and strengthen bonds (i.e. watercolor paints, watercolor paper, good paint brushes, colored pencils, makers, oil pastels). Art can elicit memories, provide productivity, activate neural pathways in the brain and release emotions in a safe way. Art therapy certificates are also available through Senior Helpers (please contact me for details) if interested.

• Magazine subscriptions/books: if there is a favorite magazine or book, oftentimes, loved ones enjoy thumbing through. If there is a specific interest in subject matter, this can generate positive activity/meaning in resonance (i.e. magazines in: nature/Earth, gardening, photography, art, quilting/sewing, fashion, sports/golf/fishing/biking, etc.).

• Puzzles: Putting together a dignifying puzzle piece can be stimulating in brain activity and productivity; and perhaps turning the completed puzzle into a framed piece of art and hang on the wall (watch for too many small pieces as this can be overwhelming).

• Gift Cards: Many gift cards are available–a favorite restaurant, store, art therapy session, spa services (be mindful of bath/skin products as certain ingredients can cause skin irritations), hair/nail salon, museums, etc.

• Time: taking some time out to spend with your loved one is probably one of the best gifts you can give throughout the year. Human connection is essential to well-being. Even if a loved one can’t remember your name or appears to not know who you are, he/she knows you feel good to them, and deep inside, knows exactly who you are and how much you mean. Take some time out to talk, to take a walk, to look at books, document their thoughts and life-story (this is the wonders of art and music therapy), listen to music, paint or get creative with other mediums, watch something spectacular that is enjoyed on television or outside. Time is a virtue.

There are many things to enjoy and celebrate throughout the holidays. If you have a question or would like more information on a specific topic, please contact me.