NATIONWIDE — Holiday shopping and gift-giving can be challenging, but even more so when trying to find the perfect gift for a person with dementia. 

More than six million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, including more than 410,000 people in New York and 280,000 people in Pennsylvania. 

Some gifts, even those given with the best of intentions, might no longer be appropriate or practical for your loved one.

For the holiday season, the Alzheimer’s Association has released its 2023 holiday gift guide, offering gift ideas for people in the early, middle and late stages of dementia.

Five gifts for people with early-stage dementia

A “memory” calendar featuring family photos—write down special family occasions, such as birthdays and anniversaries

Gift cards for ride-sharing services or a favorite activity (e.g. golf, a movie, a visit to a restaurant)

Baskets or trays that can be labeled

Dual-purpose GPS trackers (bracelets, watches) 

Erasable whiteboard to list reminders or the day’s activities

Five gifts for people with middle-to-late stage dementia

Music playlists that include the person’s favorite artists or songs

Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that is easy to put on, remove and wash, such as sweatshirts and elastic-waist pants; non-slip socks; shoes that close with Velcro; wrinkle-free nightgowns or nightshirts; a fluffy bathrobe 

Framed photographs or a photo collage created specifically for your loved one—insert the names of the people in the photos to help with identification  

Items that help reduce anxiety, such as a handheld massage ball or soft blanket

Adaptive dining equipment such as no-spill cups, plate guards and silverware with specifically designed handles that enable independence during meals

For more tips on how families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias can safely enjoy time with family and friends during the holidays, visit the Alzheimer’s Association website at www.alz.org or call its free 24-hour helpline at 800/272-3900.