Christmas is a wonderful time of the year for many, but it can also be very challenging. We sometimes feel pressure to find the perfect gifts for our nearest and dearest, for example, and that can be harder still when a loved one is living with dementia. We’ve put together a list of gift ideas to help you find the perfect gift.

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. 

Oxford Soap Company make some lovely products and The Old Bank Gift Shop on the High Street in Wheatley is a stockist.

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. 

Katie at Quintessential Touch on the High Street in Wheatley recommends Neal’s Yard Remedies.

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 British Blanket Company has a beautiful range of colours, materials and sizes in their range.

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. 

There is a wide range of shoes and slippers available from The Mobility Aid Centre.

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. 

The Able Label has lots of options for men and women.

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! 

There are lots of albums available from various retailers but we especially like the Italian Marbled Photo Album from Scriptum in Oxford.

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

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. 

We love the designs available from Relish Life, and they have lots of sizes to choose from.

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. 

The Precious Petzzz dogs from Stress No More are ideal for animal lovers.

We hope our suggestions help you find the perfect gift to bring some joy to your loved one this Christmas.  We are looking forward to opening our doors to residents in the new year. If you would like to enquire about Wellford Gardens, please do get in touch.