Introduction
This post is all about finding the perfect gift for a person with Alzheimer’s. It starts by telling you what to do if you have a grandparent with Alzheimer’s. Next, it reminds you to find out your grandmother’s favorite hobby before buying anything (but don’t get her arts and crafts, because she may make mistakes). Finally, it tells you about some good gifts for grandparents with Alzheimer’s. This includes puzzles, games like Monopoly or Scrabble, reading glasses or magnifiers, and pets like goldfish.
Growing up, grandparents are supposed to be the beacon of wisdom and experience. They help you with your first crush or teach you how to tell time on an analog clock. Our grandparents fill us with warmth and comfort, but what if they’re suffering from Alzheimer’s? How can we help them, care for them, or give gifts that are meaningful to each member of our family?
Learn More
When caring for someone suffering from Alzheimer’s, it is important to keep in mind that the person is still capable of learning new things — just differently than before. New experiences can be difficult but rewarding and many people report improved mood and happiness after any activity.
11 Gifts For Grandparents With Alzheimer’s
1. Scrabble Set
Anyone who has played Scrabble can tell you the value of a proper set. A good set will come with enough tiles for a family, especially for someone with Alzheimer’s. The game is much more challenging, and can even help provide some good conversation starters. You could also find a crafty person to make Scrabble-themed art or give them one of those wooden figures they use to play the game), so they’re not just an old puzzle that nobody cares about.
If you’re considering getting her a new set (or bringing one out of storage), you should know that Scrabble is difficult to find in stores these days, and almost impossible on eBay and Amazon.
2. Board Games
Board games can be a lot of fun, especially when you’re with the people you love. While you should already know your grandparents’ favorite game, something like Monopoly or Trivial Pursuit can be great as well. They’re also more difficult to find these days. Check with family members to see if they still have one laying around, or try garage sales for a classic that needs a new home.
There is one board game that really does make a fantastic gift for parents and grandparents with Alzheimer’s disease. It’s called “Memory”, and it is probably the simplest memory game ever to exist . There are various different versions of the game – some for 2 players and others for 4 players .
3. Reading Glasses
You can never have too many reading glasses – especially if you know your aging grandparent needs them. There are a few different types of reading glasses online, from the basic type to something fancy and stylish. If your grandparents already wear reading glasses, you could check the internet for some cool frames .
4. Colored Pens
Colored pens aren’t expensive, but they are certainly nice to look at and to use regularly. A colored marker is also a great way to make a gift more personal. If keeping track of their own pens is hard for them, consider giving them one with a cover so they won’t lose it or have it stolen by one of their dogs (not that they have dogs).
5. Electronic Dictionary
If your grandparents have a hard time reading or writing, give them an electronic dictionary. They’re simple to use and even come with games for when your grandfather has nothing else to do. You could also buy a simple electronic device like a Kindle, which will allow them to use the internet.
6. TV Magnifier
When everything starts getting smaller and smaller (and harder to see), it’s time for a TV magnifier . This product is the perfect gift for grandparents who are finding it difficult to read the small text on their television (or any other digital screen). Like most magnifiers, this one can be clipped onto the corner of their screen – making your grandparents’ life that little bit easier.
7. Reading Glasses
Every parent of a child with learning disabilities knows how important it is to have good reading glasses. However, good reading glasses can be hard to find for everyone. If your grandparents need a pair, you could always bring out the old frames (then wash them before giving them to them), but you could also consider buying new ones on Amazon or eBay .
8. Writing Pencils
It’s important that you get your aging grandparent writing pens or pencils, because they will have other issues down the road. If they already have a set that they love, then buy something that is similar in color and design (not just black).
9. Craft Supplies
If you know your aging grandparents love making art, then give them the supplies and some inspiration. This will not only help them but also allow you to teach them something new and useful. A craft pad and colored pencils are a great place to start. If they already have a set of paint brushes, then you could check out the arts and crafts section of stores like Target or Walmart (or even Walgreens if they are in the same building). You could also buy some paint online or at fabric stores like Joann Fabrics . If they already own a sewing machine, then you could get them some thread or fabric to sew with (but don’t give them scissors just yet).
10. Scrapbooking Supplies
If your grandparents have a particular hobby, consider buying them the basics. Stamps, a brayer, and some glue are all that’s needed to start making a scrapbook. You could also check out Amazon or eBay for blank notebooks or greeting cards .
11. School Supplies
School supplies can really help people with Alzheimer’s if school is difficult for them because of the work load or because of their memory. If you know your grandparents can’t remember anything from school, then this may be something you’d want to skip over completely.
Conclusion
If your grandparents have Alzheimer’s, you can never have too many gifts. The older they get, the harder it will be to shop for them and their needs change. If you forget something, you may not even find out about it until your grandparents return the item in a few weeks or months. But these are just some suggestions – be creative and think of something that your aging grandparents would love more than anything. If you’re not sure where to start, check out this list of Alzheimer’s gifts for more ideas or just look online for some inspiration