Dementia Activities for Seniors

Guide: choosing activities by stage of dementia

A good activity respects the abilities the person still has and lets them succeed. Here are some guidelines for choosing by stage of dementia.

Early stage

Simple board games, large-print crosswords, puzzles of 35 pieces or more, group reminiscence activities.

Middle stage

13 to 35-piece puzzles, sorting games, large-format bingo, music from past decades, orientation boards to keep track of the day.

Late stage

Objects to hold and handle: twiddle muffs, lifelike dolls and pets, weighted products, scent games and familiar music.

Good to know

These activities encourage enjoyment, connection and the maintenance of abilities, but they do not replace medical treatment or advice.