15 No-Fail Activities for Adults with Dementia

When it comes to keeping your loved one with dementia occupied, it may be challenging to find activities that are enjoyable and easy to do. It can be common for these older adults to get frustrated or overwhelmed with new tasks, which in turn can be stressful for you both.

Activities for dementia patients should be easy to succeed at and failure-free! No-fail activities are projects that your loved one can do at any time, and ensure they’ll have a great time while doing them. Sensory-focused activities, i.e., keeping their hands and minds occupied, are a great way to reduce anxiety and calm their nerves. These types of activities can also help boost your loved one’s self-esteem while curing boredom. If there is an activity that your loved one was passionate about, try adapting it to meet their current needs.

Some activities may be more suitable for your loved one than others, but don’t be afraid to include new activities if you think it might be something your loved one would enjoy. Supervision is recommended with any new activity until you feel that your loved one is safe and happy with the activity.

1. Folding towels or laundry
2. Thread pasta with yarn
3. Collage with old pictures or magazines
4. Watch old movies or TV shows
5. Puzzle
6. Knitting
7. Sort a deck of cards
8. Coloring
9. Untying Knots
10. Pairing and Sorting
11. Pattern Blocks
12. Sing along to music or musicals
13. Organizing a junk drawer
14. Aqua Painting
15. Sensory Pouches or Squish Bags

Be sure to let us know if you tried any the activities above and if you’re loved one enjoyed them! Are we missing your favorite activity to do? Let us know in the comments below!