Creativity and Dementia: How to Make Holiday Gifts with Your Loved One

The holiday season is a magical time full of joy, love, and unity. For families navigating the journey of dementia, creating personalized do-it-yourself (DIY) gifts is a great way to get the whole family involved this season; it isn’t just a meaningful endeavor but a therapeutic journey. 

Tapping into the link between creativity and dementia unlocks a myriad of benefits for a person living with dementia, strengthening bonds and lighting up the festive season. These simple yet profoundly heartfelt gifts promise to sprinkle extra sparkle on everyone’s holiday!

At Bella Groves, the holidays are our favorite time of year in our memory care community in San Antonio, and we want to help you make the most of this season with your loved ones. Below, our team explores how to involve individuals with dementia in creating DIY gifts, the benefits of this activity, and practical tips to ensure a positive experience for all.

Understanding Dementia and Its Challenges

The holiday season can be overwhelming for people living with dementia and their care partners. Common symptoms associated with dementia, such as memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with everyday tasks, can make it hard for your loved one to participate in holiday traditions. This can lead to isolation, frustration, and confusion, especially if your loved one has always been involved in planning and preparing past holidays.

People living with dementia still desire to connect and contribute. Crafting DIY gifts can provide a sense of purpose and joy and foster a stronger bond between family members and care partners.

Benefits of Crafting DIY Gifts

DIY gift-making offers numerous cognitive and emotional benefits for those living with dementia. It stimulates creativity, encourages problem-solving, and enhances fine motor skills. Additionally, crafting can have a calming effect, reducing anxiety and agitation.

Involving your loved one in these activities creates opportunities for meaningful interaction for caregivers and family members. It allows you to share special moments, create lasting memories, and strengthen your relationships. Crafting together can also provide a sense of accomplishment and pride, boosting your loved one’s self-esteem. 

Assisting your loved one with crafting offers them a special chance to create personalized gifts for family and friends. Regardless of where they are in their dementia journey, shopping independently can be a challenge. By involving them in crafting, you not only keep them safe from the difficulties of solo shopping trips but also enable them to participate in your family’s holiday traditions and gift exchanges. This approach enhances their sense of involvement and joy during the holidays and enriches the gifting experience for everyone involved.

Practical Tips for Crafting DIY Gifts

When selecting crafts for individuals with dementia, it’s crucial to consider their abilities and interests. Choose projects that are simple, safe, and enjoyable. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Choose Age-Appropriate Crafts: Select activities that match their cognitive and physical capabilities. Simple projects like decorating picture frames or making holiday cards are often well-suited.

• Create a Safe Environment: Ensure the crafting area is well-lit, clutter-free, and equipped with non-toxic materials. Avoid sharp objects and small items that could pose a choking hazard.

• Offer Clear Instructions: Break down the steps into manageable parts and provide gentle guidance. Use visual aids and demonstrate each step to make it easier to follow.

Gift Ideas and Step-by-Step Guides

Here are some simple (and fun!) DIY gift ideas that are perfect for crafting with your loved one – not to mention, they make fantastic gifts! 

Decorated Picture Frames

Materials Needed: Plain wooden frames, paint, brushes, decorative stickers, glue.

1. Paint the wooden frames in festive colors.
2. Once dry, add decorative stickers or glue on small embellishments.
3. Insert a cherished family photo to complete the gift.

Holiday Cards

Materials Needed: Blank cards, markers, colored paper, stickers, glue.

1. Fold the blank card in half to create a greeting card.
2. Decorate the front with markers, stickers, and cut-out shapes from colored paper.
3. Write a heartfelt message inside, and add any finishing touches.

Aromatherapy Sachets

Materials Needed: Small fabric pouches, dried lavender or other fragrant herbs, ribbon.

1. Fill the fabric pouches with dried lavender or chosen herbs.
2. Tie the pouches securely with a ribbon.
3. Optionally, add a small card with a personal note.

Making the Most of the Experience

To ensure a positive crafting experience, it’s essential to create an environment that maximizes enjoyment and reduces frustration:

• Be Patient and Flexible: Allow plenty of time for each step and be prepared to adjust the activity based on their needs and preferences. Celebrate their efforts and achievements, no matter how small.

• Encourage Participation: Offer gentle encouragement and praise to keep them engaged. If they lose interest, take a break and return to the activity later.

• Focus on the Process, Not the Product: The goal is to enjoy the time spent together and create happy memories. The final product is secondary to the experience of crafting with your loved one.

Crafting DIY gifts with your loved one can be rewarding and heartwarming. It provides cognitive and emotional benefits, fosters meaningful interactions, and helps create cherished memories. 

At Bella Groves, we are committed to providing resources and support to enhance their well-being and quality of life. For more tips and personalized support, contact our team members at Bella Groves. Let’s make this holiday season a special one for you and your loved ones!