Arts and crafts offer seemingly endless opportunities for entertaining loved ones with dementia. There are several types of projects that can help them stay active and focused, without providing too much of a challenge. If you’re a caregiver looking for new activities, here are some art and craft options to add to your list.

What Art Activities Are Beneficial for Elderly People With Dementia?

1. Making Cards

Greeting cards offer a practical way to stay in touch with loved ones. This also provides a sense of purpose for their project. Start with some folded paper and paint, colored pencils, or markers. You can provide stencils, cutouts, and guidance for the outside of the cards while letting them write a personal message on the inside.

2. Scrapbooking

Scrapbooking or collage making can help spur happy moments in those with dementia by providing old photos, articles, or mementos to look at. Provide a selection of pages, and other materials, and make copies of precious items for them to cut and paste in scrapbook pages. You can also flip through their creations regularly to help stimulate their memories.

3. Pottery

For those who like working with their hands, clay offers a unique art medium. Provide some air dry clay and let them sculpt and mold the material into whatever comes to their mind. For those who prefer a bit of structure, help them shape the clay into pots for their garden or windowsill.

4. Paint By Numbers

Some individuals may prefer an easy activity that has clearly outlined instructions. Paint by numbers sets include papers with clearly defined shapes and numbers that correspond with specific paint colors. This challenges their focus and offers a beautiful finished product they can be proud of.

5. Doodling

Some people prefer to enjoy absolute freedom in their creativity. Doodling simply requires paper and pens, markers, or colored pencils. Set the materials up at a table and give them the freedom to create whatever images come to mind. You and your loved one may be surprised by what drawings or abstract patterns are created.

If you’re a caregiver for a loved one with dementia, Memory Care Home Solutions in St. Louis, MO, offers resources to help. The compassionate team at this organization offers family caregiver support, including personalized training and consultations. All services are offered free of charge and are specific to those who have family members that have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Visit their website to see a full list of services. To speak with a friendly representative, call (314) 645-6247.