Statewide, Iowa – More than 62,000 Iowans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, or another form of dementia. If one of them is on your holiday gift list, some well-intentioned presents may no longer be appropriate or practical for them.
Lauren Livingston, spokeswoman for the Iowa chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, says some gifts can help a loved one in the early stages of the disease continue to navigate and maintain their independence.
Other gifts for someone in the early stages might include a GPS tracker which can help to keep them safe while allowing them to stay independent. Another idea is a “memory” calendar featuring family photos and filled in with birthdays and anniversaries. Livingston says the gift of music is always a plus.
For people in the mid to later stages, Livingston says soothing gifts can help with anxiety, like a handheld massage ball, a soft blanket, or a fluffy bathrobe.
Another thoughtful gift might be framed photographs, or a photo collage created specifically for your loved one, and include people’s names on the photos. Other suggestions include: A memory phone that can store pictures with names and contact information, puzzle and activity books, card games and board games, or an outing to a movie, play or sporting event. Find more ideas at www.alz.org/iowa.
