We understand that finding a Christmas gift can be tricky, especially when you put extra pressure on yourself to get it right. If your loved one is living with dementia, this can increase again, so we’ve put together a list of suggestions, updated for 2024, many of which are available locally in Salisbury, to help you find the perfect present.

Hand Lotion

Taking care of hands with a rich hand cream is a treat everyone can enjoy, and you can make it extra special by giving a gentle hand massage that creates a connection between you and your loved one. It’s a soothing experience to enjoy while you spend time together.

We love Plum and Ashby Hand and Body Lotion, £19.00 from Pod & Pip in a range of fragrances.

Essential Oils

Smell is a powerful sense and fragrances can evoke memories and remind us of times, places, and people. Scent can also be calming if you choose the right options; lavender and chamomile are good choices for relaxation. We recommend reed diffusers over scented candles, which could pose a fire risk, though do check that neither the reeds nor the oils themselves are toxic if ingested.

Try the Scent Studio in the Cross Keys Shopping Centre for a range of lovely scented products to suit all budgets.

A Cosy Blanket

A soft blanket can be both warm, perfect at this time of year, and comforting, offering a feeling of security.  Choose a style with different textures if you can, that can offer some tactile stimulation as well as the cosiness. 

The Wild Blanket Company is a Wiltshire-based company run by husband and wife team, supporting UK farming and proudly British, all sustainably produced using 100% wool.

Fleecy Slippers

Continuing the cosy theme, some slippers to keep feet warm is a nice idea. Who doesn’t love the feeling of slipping toes into a nice new pair of slippers?  Choose a pair that cover the feet like a shoe, rather than loose or slip-on designs, and make sure the soles are non-slip. 

Classic British brand, Clark’s has a range of styles that are suitable for people living with dementia.

Clothing

Clothing can be a good gift, especially for someone in the earlier stages of their dementia journey, as it can support both independence and comfort.  Look out for items that are easy to put on with features like elasticated waistbands, or Velcro fastenings. 

We would love to know if there are local stockists in or around Salisbury. Disability Horizons does a good range online.

A Photo Album

Compiling a photo album full of memories and cherished moments is a wonderful, personal gift for anyone and can be especially appreciated by someone living with dementia. Take the time to label the pictures with details of the places, the dates, and who is in the photos to stimulate conversations and trigger some happy memories. It’s the perfect way to spend some time together, and we’re confident you’ll enjoy putting it together, too! 

Wessex Photo has a range of traditional photo albums, or you could look into a digital photo frame that showcases lots of images on rotation, and offers a dynamic visual stimulus.

Cuddly Animals/Robotic Pets

If your loved one has always kept pets and is no longer able to, there are lots of robotic pets available that many people living with dementia find comfort and attachment from. You may have seen our animatronic cats around the home! Our residents love to engage with them by stroking them or brushing their fur. Robopets has some very realistic pets and can even create a bespoke pet in your loyal companion’s image.

Dolls or teddies can also provide comfort and attachment to some people who are living with dementia. 

We hope these suggestions are useful. The team at Avon Court are specialists in supporting those living with dementia and their families, so if you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We wish you and your families a very merry Christmas!