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Shopping ideas for Alzheimer’s patients and caregivers

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Popular gifts this holiday season may not be for everyone. Especially those with Alzheimer’s disease.

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According to the Alzheimer’s Association Seven million Americans are living with the disease. And some gifts may not be appropriate. It depends on the stage of a person’s dementia.

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“Family members and friends may need to rethink their gift-giving strategies when shopping for someone with dementia,” said Dr. Elizabeth Edgerly, senior director of programs and community services for the Alzheimer’s Association. Chicago-based Simer said in a press release statement.

Close-up of senior woman's and young woman's hands holding gifts during Christmas

Some gifts may not be appropriate for people with Alzheimer’s disease, the association says. (Istock)

“Gifts that might have made you a holiday hero in the past may no longer be appropriate,” she continued.

“You have to start by considering where the person is. So you can choose a gift that they can use and enjoy.”

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The Alzheimer’s Association has released the following list of gifts suitable for patients at all stages of the disease.

Gifts for early stages of Alzheimer’s disease

Happy young woman looks at family photos in photo album with grandma

Bringing old photos Having a familiar face as a gift will be helpful and thought-provoking. (Istock)

1. Dry-Erase Calendars and Whiteboards With colorful markers, it’s a bright way to jot things down.

2. label maker It can help people with memory problems organize and keep track of household items.

3. gift card For ride-sharing services or favorite activities, your loved ones can participate.

Dementia report reveals ‘alarming’ signs at age 60 You develop the disease at age 80.

4. GPS trackerIn the form of a watch, bracelet or keychain, it allows individuals to maintain independence while maintaining safety.

5. Calendar “Memories” Family photos can be filled in and important dates marked in advance.

Gifts for the middle to late stage

Woman sitting on a wicker rocking chair with a blanket and holding hands at home

The Alzheimer’s Association recommends comforting gifts, such as blankets, for those in the later stages of dementia. (Istock)

6. Song list Can be compiled with your loved one’s favorite artists and songs.

7. Comfortable, not tight-fitting clothesSuch as tracksuits, pullover shirts, nightgowns, bathrobes. and laceless shoes Easy to put on, take off and wash.

8. Framed photos or collages along with the person’s name will help in identification.

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9. relaxing gift like a soft blanket Or a handheld massage ball can help relieve stress and anxiety.

10. “Adaptive” dining equipment — such as spill-proof cups, placemats, and silverware with handles — encourage independence at the dinner table.

gifts for engagement

Close-up of senior couple playing jigsaw puzzle

Mentally stimulating gifts like puzzles and activity books can go a long way in keeping the mind alert. (Istock)

11. memory phone Pictures can be stored along with names and contact information.

12. Puzzles and activity books Stimulates the brain and promotes intellectual acumen.

13. Card games and board games Promote engagement with others while keeping your mind sharp.

14. outing Watching movies, concerts, sporting events Or a museum can keep recipients engaged and entertained.

15. DIY craftssuch as scrapbooks or decorative paintings Promote participation at home

Things to consider when shopping

When shopping for someone with dementia, Edgerly recommends considering two things about the recipient: What does the person like? And what can this person do?

“It is important to adapt your talents to where the person is sick.”

“A lifelong passion. Including favorite hobbies and activities It doesn’t necessarily go away with a dementia diagnosis,” she told Fox News Digital. “However, It is important to adapt your talents to the patient’s disease point.”

“For example: People who are avid golfers may no longer be able to play. But a picture book featuring a golf course or a player might be most appropriate.”

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Edgerly suggests thinking about “Things that make them happy” such as photos of past family members or pets that can be made into customized gifts.

“Create a glass of water. Decorations Or a special notebook with those photos on the cover,” she suggests. “Do they have a favorite song list? Create playlists for devices like Amazon (Alexa) or Google Home, choosing gifts that fit these interests. but in a manner appropriate to perception.”

Cheerful child giving gifts to mother and grandmother

One of the best gifts for someone living with dementia, according to experts, is the gift of your time. (Istock)

Gifts that help support people with dementia in a fun way are a great choice. experts say The same goes for things that provide comfort.

“The best gift I bought my mother after she developed dementia was a giant box of individually wrapped whoopie pies,” Edgerly shared.

“The adage that the best things in life are free is true.”

“She was able to give them out to all her friends and the staff at the shelter. I’m sure she has a lot to give away. She had the biggest smile on her face handing them out to everyone.”

But one of the best gifts you can give someone with dementia, according to Edgerly, is the gift of taking your time.

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“Plan to spend time with people doing things they enjoy,” she suggests. “It might be playing games, looking at old photos, watching a favorite movie. Or go out to eat.”

“The adage that the best things in life are free is true. Spending time and engaging with individuals in meaningful ways can be the ultimate gift.”

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