Gifts For People With Dementia
Finding the Right Gift
Finding the perfect gift for someone living with dementia can be tricky—you want something that feels meaningful, age-appropriate and isn’t just “another activity.” You want a gift that sparks creativity and connection.
As a Board-Certified Art Therapist in Boston, MA, I see daily how art-making can light that spark, reduce anxiety caused by cognitive challenges, and create shared moments between families and friends. Whether you’re shopping for a parent, grandparent, or friend, these art-inspired gifts for people with dementia are designed to meet each person where they are.
A quick note, I don’t love placing individuals into categories. For the purpose of this article I have because my suggestions are based on a generalization of capabilities. You may find that something for early diagnosis works in later stage and vice versa! The brain is a wonderful, powerful and surprising organ.
Gifts for Mild Dementia:
Inspire Independence and Expression
In the early stages, many people remain active, curious, and capable of exploring new hobbies. Art-based gifts can help them express themselves and stay mentally engaged. All of these below encourage interaction and socialization at their core.
Gift Ideas
Gift Cards to Local Art Organizations
Reduce the stigma that individuals with cognitive challenges can’t participate in traditional art classes. If you’re in the early awareness or diagnosis of a cognitive disorder, creating art IS beneficial. Being social with others IS beneficial. Remaining active in life IS beneficial.
Here are three wonderful art studios North of Boston.
Arlington, MA
Melrose, MA
Lexington, MA
Art That Promotes Interaction
Boards games with great graphics or encourages a person to think, laugh and be a part of community.
Pictionary
Just Ask
This might seem simple, but we forget the power of asking someone what they might be interested in. There are so many art supplies and if you know the individual you’re shopping for likes art, maybe offer to go to an art store together.
Gifts for Moderate Dementia:
Encourage Comfort and Engagement
As dementia progresses, attention span and dexterity may change. Gifts that engage the senses—through color, touch, and repetition— can be deeply rewarding.
Gift Ideas:
Artfully Aging sells pre-drawn watercolor sheets with guidance along the way. These are great to create together. Each comes with a pack of five, so you are able to do this painting more than once!
Ouisi sells image cards that are a real go-to for my work as an Inhome Art Therapist in Boston, MA. They’re ALWAYS in my bag because they can be used in so many different ways. You can play the games like the guide book in the package OR make up your own games/drawing ideas. I recommend the Original Pack and their Dementia Guide
Coloring Books and Markers - This can be a hit or a miss item. Some individuals love coloring on their own and some may need someone next to them to color with.. Interaction is often really important here. I suggest looking for books that have nice open spaces to color in. I also recommend getting basic markers with a round tip. Sometimes too thin can be frustration in a large space and too think can be hard to use in smaller spaces.
Coloring Book Ideas (go with themes someone is interested in. There is a coloring book for everything these days)
Stickers have become a real obsession for me with clients and in my own art. I love using these in collage because it removes the task of cutting. Some people are able to sort through all the pages and choose the image they like, while others do better with only a few stickers in front of them.
Gifts for Late-Stage Dementia
Nurture the Senses and Connection
In late-stage dementia, art becomes less about making and more about feeling. Sensory art experiences can offer comfort, soothing, and moments of shared presence.
Gift Ideas:
Washable Tempera Paint, Canvas and Easel – If you’re feeling up to trying something different, blank canvas, 2-3 colors of paint, Paint brush and an Upright Easel with the intention of being open to whatever happens. I suggest this idea because I’ve seen clients in the “later stages” do this and really enjoy the experience and ability to have freedom on the canvas.
Sensory Mats – These fidget mats can be a great help when you can’t be one on one with someone. They don’t always work for everyone, but they are definitely worth the try. Look for ones that have visual contrast between the fidget and the fabric backing.
Flower Arranging can be done with real or artificial flowers. It can be a great way for someone to touch and feel the individual flowers and be given the opportunity to automatically respond with verbal languge or facial expressions. You can use whatever vase and flowers you have on hand. It’s definitely worth a try.
Why Art Makes the Perfect Gift
Art-making offers more than a pastime
—it’s a bridge to connection, comfort, and self-expression at every stage of dementia.
Creative activities help people:
Express feelings when words are hard to find
Stay engaged and focused in the moment
Feel seen
Experience joy through color, texture, and movement
Even small moments of creativity can brighten a day and rekindle connection between loved ones.
Want Help Choosing the Right Art Activity?
As a Board Certified Art Therapist specializing in cognitive disorders, I help families and professionals design meaningful creative experiences for individuals in all stages of the dementia journey.
Whether you’re looking for one-on-one art therapy sessions in Melrose, MA, group facilitation North of Boston, or virtual support integrating art into care routines—I can help.