Christmas is often the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be very challenging for many, not least the pressure to find the perfect gifts for our nearest and dearest. When a loved one is living with dementia, there can be extra pressure, so we’ve put together a thoughtful list of gift ideas, many of which are available locally in Salisbury.

Hand Lotion

A gentle hand massage with a subtly fragranced hand lotion is a thoughtful gift that allows a connection between you and the recipient of your gift and can provide a soothing, calming experience. 

We love My Trusty Sunflower Hand Cream, £5.52, which is vegan-friendly and uses 98% natural ingredients, developed in partnership with NHS Salisbury.

Essential Oils

Smell can be such a powerful sense and scents can be both evocative and calming. Lavender or chamomile are good choices for promoting relaxation, and rather than choose scented candles which might pose a fire risk, choose a reed diffuser, though do check that the oils and reeds are non-toxic. 

Try local small business, Saltmama, for their SLEEP Reed Diffuser at £27.00.

A Cosy Blanket

At this time of year especially, a soft blanket can be both warm 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 Salisbury Fleece Blanket from The Tiny Art Co features pen and ink drawings of the history of Salisbury – you’ll even find Old Sarum on there! Priced at £39.00, it’s made from anti-pill soft fleece.

Fleecy Slippers

Continuing the cosy theme, some slippers to keep feet warm is a nice idea.  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 suitable slippers.

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.  Consider looking 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 but we’re not aware of one at the moment. 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 photo albums to suit lots of tastes.

A digital photo frame is a nice alternative to have a dynamic visual stimulus with photographs rotating automatically.

PC Mag has a good round-up of the best on the market at the moment.

A Classic Jigsaw Puzzle

Great for cognitive stimulation and focus, not to mention the sense of achievement on completion, a jigsaw can be a lovely gift.  Choose an age-appropriate design, with large, easy-to-handle pieces. This is another gift that can be enjoyed together. 

Gibsons Games does a nice “piecing together” collection.

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. Some of these are lifelike and provide the person the opportunity to engage with by stroking or brushing the fur. Other items such as dolls or teddies can also provide comfort and attachment to some people who are living with dementia. 

We’ve found that robotic pets are far less trouble than real ones! Robopets has some furry companions that are much easier to care for than cats and dogs.

We hope our suggestions help you find the perfect gift to bring some joy to your loved one this Christmas.  We are specialists in supporting those living with dementia and their families, and if you have any questions please, don't hesitate to reach get in touch with us.