Resource for Caregivers to Engage, Enrich, and Involve People with Dementia in Person-Centered Activities
Giftofenrichment.com - Shift your perspective on dementia care by integrating group-based activities with personalized and individualized activities. Our philosophy is based on Montessori Method principles.
Activity Search uses Dementia Level and Interest/Hobbies or Activity Categories for the search navigation. Activity Categories serves as key elements helping you to organize your Monthly Activity Calendar.
Printables (minimal fee, download and use) such as Printables: Missing Letters for early to middle-stage dementia and Printables: Photo Puzzles for all stages of dementia.
Discover our new activity packs featuring hands-on dementia activities that align seamlessly with LifeLoop HighLight Theme Activities - view below. These theme packs are ready to mail out to your community.
Membership Activity Search gives you access for planning activities, benefits for dementia, and where to purchase activities. Also, access to training videos, free monthly printables, blogs and more.
Search for Person-Centered Dementia Activities
The Montessori Method:
- Create a Calm Environment: Make sure the setting is quiet and free of distractions to help the participant focus on the task.
- Always Invite the Person: Make each person feel special, "Let's do an activity together". Positive interaction.
- Adapt the Level of Difficulty: Tailor the complexity of the shapes or patterns to the individual’s abilities. Some people may enjoy simple, repetitive designs, while others may appreciate more complex challenges.
- Take Breaks: If the participant shows signs of frustration or fatigue, encourage a break. You can always return to the activity later.
- Offer Frequent Encouragement: Even if the participant doesn’t complete a specific pattern or shape, offer praise for the effort they put in. Focus on the enjoyment of the activity, not the outcome.
- Celebration of Success: Celebrate the completion of words and progress, providing positive reinforcement and encouragement.
Browse Online Training
- Videos that help train the caregiver on planning and presenting personalized dementia activities.
- Explore our videos on "How to Create a Sensory Enrichment Station."
Browse Free Printable Activities
Gale's Journey
Reflecting on my mother’s experiences in various assisted living
communities, I remember how the Memory Care Director would ask for details about her
likes— hobbies, work, foods, colors, and music to create personalized care plans. While we appreciated their interest, it became clear that the Memory Care Team struggled to implement individualized activities based on my mother's hobbies, work, music, etc. This gap in personalized care inspired me to focus on the individual. Over 12 years of experience with Sensory Outings Program, we ensured that our resources match the person's interests and their physical and cognitive abilities. The resources are for Memory Care Directors, Life Enrichment Coordinators, Activity Directors, Professional Caregivers and Family/Friend Cargivers.
Dementia Levels
