Engaging someone with dementia in meaningful activities can be a powerful tool for enhancing quality of life, preserving dignity, and building connection. Whether your loved one is in the early or late stages of dementia, thoughtful activities can spark joy, reduce anxiety, and create moments of calm and purpose.
This list of 101 things to do with dementia patients is designed for caregivers, family members, and professionals looking for practical, enriching ideas. From creative expression to gentle movement and memory-based interactions, these activities are tailored to different stages and abilities with the goal of fostering comfort, communication, and well-being.
You don’t need special equipment or training. What matters most is presence, patience, and a willingness to meet your loved one where they are.
Let’s explore some simple, joyful ways to connect.
Section 1: Creative Activities
Stimulate self-expression and joy through simple art projects
Creative activities can offer a powerful outlet for individuals living with dementia, regardless of their cognitive stage. Art encourages self-expression, evokes memories, and helps reduce anxiety while engaging fine motor skills and stimulating the senses. These activities don’t need to be complex or produce “perfect” results. The goal is connection, enjoyment, and presence in the moment.
Here are 10 dementia-friendly creative activities to try:
1. Coloring with adult coloring books – Use large-print, calming images with colored pencils or markers.
2. Watercolor painting – Simple, mess-free watercolors offer vibrant fun with minimal cleanup.
3. Making a collage – Cut or tear magazine images and glue onto poster board around a theme (e.g., seasons, family).
4. Holiday or seasonal crafts – Create paper snowflakes, leaf rubbings, or Valentine’s cards.
5. Finger painting – Tactile and freeing, especially for late-stage individuals.
6. Clay or playdough sculpting – Soothing and sensory-rich; make simple shapes or press with cookie cutters.
7. Scrapbooking – Assemble photos and stickers in a keepsake book together.
8. Decorating picture frames – Use stickers, foam shapes, or buttons for personal flair.
9. Painting garden rocks – Great for outdoor engagement and sharing with family or neighbors.
10. Creating greeting cards – Make “thinking of you” cards to send to friends, family, or other care residents.
Tip: Always tailor the activity to the person’s ability and interest. Offer gentle guidance, and celebrate effort over outcome.
Sensory Activities
Soothing the mind through touch, scent, and sound
For individuals living with dementia, sensory activities can be grounding and comforting. They stimulate the brain in non-verbal ways, often evoking memories, emotions, and a sense of security. These types of activities are especially beneficial for mid- to late-stage dementia, when verbal communication may be limited.
Here are 9 sensory activities to try:
11. Hand massages with scented lotion – Promotes relaxation and human connection.
12. Aromatherapy with essential oils – Lavender, citrus, or peppermint can stimulate or calm, depending on the goal.
13. Touch-and-feel sensory boards – Attach fabric swatches, faux fur, buttons, or soft brushes to cardboard or trays.
14. Warm towel wraps – Wrap hands in warm, lavender-scented towels for comfort and muscle relief.
15. Sorting textured materials – Use cotton balls, pom-poms, rice, beans, or smooth stones for sorting by touch.
16. Listening to nature sounds – Ocean waves, birdsong, or rainfall can promote calm and presence.
17. Tactile water play – Allow hands to swish through a bowl of warm or cool water with floating objects.
18. Sand or kinetic sand trays – Encourage scooping, pressing, and feeling textures without pressure to “create.”
19. Scented memory jars – Fill small jars with cinnamon sticks, coffee beans, or orange peels to smell and discuss.
Tip: Watch for signs of sensory overload. If an activity seems overstimulating, gently redirect to something simpler or quieter.
Music & Rhythm Activities
Awaken memories and emotions through sound
Music is one of the most powerful tools for connecting with people who have dementia. The brain’s response to music often remains strong even in the later stages of cognitive decline. Songs from a person’s youth can unlock vivid memories, reduce agitation, and improve mood. Rhythm-based activities also encourage movement and engagement, even for those with limited mobility.
Here are 9 music and rhythm-based activities to explore:
20. Listening to favorite songs – Create playlists from their teenage or early adult years.
21. Group sing-alongs – Use familiar tunes like “You Are My Sunshine” or hymns for easy participation.
22. Playing simple instruments – Hand out tambourines, egg shakers, or drums for rhythmic fun.
23. “Name That Tune” game – Play the first few notes of a song and let them guess the title.
24. Dancing together – Gentle swaying or seated movement to music fosters connection.
25. Music and memory storytelling – Listen to a song and talk about what memories it brings up.
26. Karaoke with lyric sheets – Use large print lyrics and simple karaoke apps or YouTube videos.
27. Musical “hot potato” – Pass an everyday object around while music plays; stop the music and ask a fun question to whoever ends up holding the object when the music stops.
28. Rhythmic clapping games – Tap or clap along to music in simple patterns.
Tip: Always observe for emotional reactions — music can trigger joy, but also sadness. Let the person lead the experience, and offer reassurance if emotions surface.
Reminiscence Activities
Reconnect through memories and meaningful moments
Reminiscence activities help dementia patients feel valued and understood by tapping into long-term memories, which are often better preserved than short-term ones. These activities promote conversation, recognition, and emotional warmth — even if details are fuzzy, the feelings tied to the past are often strong.
Here are 14 ways to spark memories and meaningful conversation:
29. Looking through old photo albums – Talk about the people and events in the pictures.
30. Creating a memory box – Fill a box with familiar items from their past (e.g., tools, sewing notions, postcards).
31. Watching classic movies or TV shows – Choose shows from their youth, like I Love Lucy or The Andy Griffith Show.
32. Sharing life stories – Ask about their childhood home, first job, or favorite holiday traditions.
33. Listening to old radio shows or commercials – Stimulates auditory memories and nostalgia.
34. Discussing historical events they lived through – Show newspaper clippings or vintage magazine ads.
35. Handling meaningful keepsakes – Let them hold wedding rings, military medals, or religious items tied to memory.
36. Scrapbooking together – Compile pictures and captions from different decades of their life.
37. Creating a family tree – Talk about relatives and family traditions while drawing the tree.
38. Reminiscence cards or prompts – Use cards with photos or simple questions like “What was your favorite meal growing up?”
39. Thrift Shopping – You can explore and uncover items from years ago that may bring up exciting memories or spark new conversations.
40. Writing letters to family and friends – Finding ways to communicate with loved ones and encouraging mental stimulation by writing down stories can be an especially valuable way to engage the mind.
41. Researching local hometown history – You may come across intriguing stories and new information that highlights important memories.
42. Then Vs. Now Comparisons – Talk about the things that have changed the most since they were younger and how they have changed.
Tip: Let the person guide the conversation and don’t worry about factual accuracy. The value in these activities lies in the emotion and connection, not the details.
Physical Activities
Encourage movement, boost mood, and support overall health
Physical activity, when tailored to ability, can help people with dementia improve mobility, maintain independence, and reduce anxiety or restlessness. Even gentle movements can promote circulation, support muscle tone, and increase energy levels. Plus, movement often lifts spirits, especially when done together.
Here are 9 dementia-friendly physical activities to consider:
43. Chair exercises – Simple stretches or leg lifts while seated help build strength and flexibility.
44. Walking outdoors or indoors – A daily walk, even for a few minutes, promotes calm and routine.
45. Balloon volleyball – A light balloon volleyed back and forth provides fun and safe physical engagement.
46. Dancing to music – Swaying, clapping, or stepping to a rhythm can lift mood and encourage connection.
47. Tai chi or yoga for seniors – Gentle movements with breathing help improve balance and relaxation.
48. Light gardening tasks – Watering plants, pruning flowers, or digging in the soil gives a sense of purpose.
49. Rolling a therapy ball – Large inflatable balls can be used to stretch arms, legs, or encourage core movement.
50. Marching in place – A simple way to boost circulation and stay active indoors.
51. Exercise videos for seniors – Use DVDs or YouTube videos geared toward low-impact, guided movement.
Tip: Always ensure safety first. Choose activities suited to the person’s mobility, use assistive devices as needed, and watch for signs of fatigue.
Outdoor & Nature Activities
Restore calm and spark joy with fresh air and natural surroundings
Nature offers therapeutic benefits for individuals with dementia. Exposure to sunlight, fresh air, greenery, and birdsong can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and enhance sleep. Outdoor time also helps regulate the body’s internal clock and can gently stimulate the senses.
Here are 10 nature-based activities to enjoy together:
52. Gardening – Watering plants, pulling weeds, or potting flowers offers purpose and sensory engagement.
53. Birdwatching – Sit quietly and observe birds; use binoculars or a simple bird ID chart for fun.
54. Walking in the yard or garden – Short strolls on a patio, path, or lawn can be grounding and invigorating.
55. Feeding ducks or squirrels – A peaceful, repetitive task that encourages gentle interaction with animals.
56. Collecting leaves or flowers – Turn this into a sorting or arranging activity afterward.
57. Sitting on a porch or balcony – Just being outside to watch the clouds, breeze, or people passing by is calming.
58. Creating a nature collage – Use gathered leaves, twigs, or petals to create a textured picture.
59. Outdoor picnic or snack time – A small meal in the open air can break the routine and lift spirits.
60. Watching clouds or stars – A simple but meaningful shared experience that invites reflection or storytelling.
61. Decorating flower pots – Paint or embellish pots, then fill them with herbs or seasonal plants.
Tip: Avoid outings during extreme heat or cold. Choose shady spots, use sunscreen, and provide mobility support as needed.
Spiritual & Mindfulness Activities
Provide comfort, calm, and a sense of meaning
Spirituality and mindfulness can offer peace and grounding to individuals with dementia, especially in later stages. These practices don’t need to be religious—simply creating quiet, intentional moments can reduce anxiety and provide emotional support. Familiar rituals, songs, and symbols often remain meaningful even when memory fades.
Here are 10 spiritual and mindfulness-based activities to consider:
62. Listening to hymns or spiritual music – Choose songs tied to their faith background or calming instrumental pieces.
63. Lighting a candle together – A quiet moment of reflection or prayer, tied to intention or memory.
64. Guided meditation or deep breathing – Simple scripts or apps can support relaxation and focus.
65. Saying grace before meals – A routine spiritual gesture that promotes connection and familiarity.
66. Reciting familiar prayers or mantras – Use large print or repeat together by memory.
67. Mindful breathing with soft music – Sit together and guide slow breaths while gentle music plays.
68. Creating a gratitude list – Talk about a few things they’re thankful for each day or week.
69. Spiritual art – Color inspirational quotes or create images of peace (sunsets, crosses, doves, etc.).
70. Attending (or watching) a service – Participate in a church, temple, or livestreamed spiritual gathering.
71. Reading devotionals or scripture – Short, comforting passages can bring familiarity and reassurance.
Tip: Always respect individual beliefs. Even nonreligious individuals may find mindfulness and quiet rituals soothing.
Social Activities
Foster connection, conversation, and a sense of belonging
Social interaction is vital for people with dementia, even if verbal communication is limited. Positive social engagement can reduce loneliness, build emotional security, and maintain a sense of identity. These activities don’t have to be elaborate—sometimes, simply being present with another person makes all the difference.
Here are 10 social activities to try:
72. Phone or video calls with loved ones – Short, familiar conversations can brighten their day.
73. Sharing meals with family or friends – Eating together encourages routine and connection.
74. Storytime with children or grandchildren – Invite little ones to read, play, or share simple crafts.
75. Pet visits – Gentle dogs or cats offer comfort, warmth, and nonverbal companionship.
76. Attending community events – Choose quiet, structured events like senior center concerts or church luncheons.
77. Hosting a small tea party – Set a table with treats and enjoy music and light conversation.
78. Photo sharing and discussion – Pass around pictures and talk about family, vacations, or events.
79. Simple board games with a partner – Games like dominoes or Uno (with support) can promote interaction.
80. Group music or exercise sessions – Participate in low-pressure group activities for shared fun.
81. Holiday celebrations or themed days – Decorate together and celebrate with music, food, and memories.
Tip: Keep group sizes small and environments calm to prevent overstimulation. Social connection comes from an active desire to participate and be a part of something, even if just in presence.
Household Tasks
Promote purpose and dignity through familiar routines
Many people with dementia find comfort and satisfaction in completing everyday household tasks especially when those tasks feel familiar and achievable. These simple chores can reinforce a sense of usefulness, spark memories, and provide gentle structure to the day. Always offer encouragement and allow the person to do as much or as little as they’re able.
Here are 10 household tasks that can be adapted for dementia care:
82. Folding towels or laundry – Repetitive and tactile, this task offers instant success.
83. Sorting socks or clothes by color – A simple and engaging visual activity.
84. Dusting furniture – Use a soft cloth and let them gently wipe surfaces.
85. Wiping down counters or tables – Gives a sense of accomplishment and tidiness.
86. Watering houseplants – Use a small watering can and provide supervision as needed.
87. Setting the table – Placing plates, utensils, and napkins fosters routine and pride.
88. Organizing a drawer – Sort buttons, utensils, or office supplies together.
89. Sweeping with a small broom – A slow, rhythmic activity that promotes movement.
90. Helping prepare simple meals – Stirring batter, tearing lettuce, or buttering bread.
91. Polishing silverware or safe objects – Use a soft cloth to clean and shine items safely.
Tip: Avoid tasks involving sharp tools, hot surfaces, or heavy lifting. Focus on involvement over perfection, and use these moments to connect, not to complete chores efficiently.
Simple Games & Puzzles
Keep the mind gently engaged through play
Games and puzzles can help people with dementia stay mentally active, improve focus, and enjoy lighthearted moments. The key is to choose activities that are age-appropriate but adapted for their current cognitive level—aiming for enjoyment, not challenge. Look for games with clear visuals, minimal rules, and cooperative rather than competitive formats.
Here are 10 dementia-friendly games and puzzles:
92. Large-piece jigsaw puzzles – Choose puzzles with 12–36 pieces and vibrant, recognizable images.
93. Matching games – Match cards by color, shape, or picture (e.g., animals or food).
94. Bingo with large print cards – Use simplified versions with visual cues and fewer options.
95. Sorting games – Sort playing cards by suit or color, or objects by size and shape.
96. Simple board games – Try Snakes & Ladders, dominoes, or Connect Four with assistance.
97. Dice rolling games – Roll a die and count objects, colors, or movements together.
98. Word search puzzles (large print) – Focus on short, theme-based lists with familiar words.
99. “What’s Missing?” memory tray game – Place items on a tray, remove one, and ask what’s gone.
100. Bean bag toss – Toss into baskets or onto marked areas for fun, low-stress play.
101. Name 3 game – Ask them to name 3 fruits, 3 animals, 3 songs, etc.—fun and thought-provoking.
Tip: Offer plenty of encouragement and praise. For individuals with more advanced dementia, even holding the pieces or watching others play can be meaningful.
Activities for Late-Stage Dementia
Focus on comfort, presence, and sensory experience
102. Textural sensory engagement – Holding a soft blanket, stuffed animal, or hand
103. Auditory sensory engagement – Listening to calming music or nature sounds
104. Visual engagement – Watching aquarium videos or lava lamps
105. Scent – Aromatherapy with familiar scents
106. Singing softly – Singing to or with a loved one can help them feel engaged and present
107. Simply sitting together in peaceful silence – Sometimes, just being with somebody can have an impact on one’s mood and improve a sense of connection
The goal of these activities isn’t productivity, it’s engagement. Every moment of calm, joy, or comfort matters. Whether you’re a professional caregiver or a loving family member, these simple activities can bring light into the lives of those living with dementia. Focus on what feels good, let go of expectations, and cherish the shared moments.
Caring for someone with dementia can be challenging. If you’d like help creating a customized life care plan that includes ways to support independence and promote mental acuity over time, reach out to McCarthy Law to learn more about our Life Care Plans.