9 Engaging Activities for Low-Vision Seniors with Dementia or Alzheimer’s

It’s well-known that interesting activities help stimulate the mind of older people, keeping them engaged in life. When they have dementia and also struggle with low vision, however, finding the right activities can be challenging. It’s essential to be creative in coming up with entertaining ideas to help reduce anxiety and agitation, as well as improve sleep.

Keep in mind that the preferences and interests of those with dementia often change over time. While you may want to try some of the activities they used to enjoy, be prepared for some trial and error, and don’t be afraid to try something new to them. Below are nine fun activities that you can use as a starting point.

1. Music. Music can be a powerful way to tap into emotions and memories. Try playing favorite albums or songs from their younger years and see if that causes them to begin reminiscing about fond memories from bygone days. Encourage them to sing along if they remember the words. You can also tune in to a radio station that plays the kind of music they enjoy. Give them a simple instrument such as a shaker or harmonica, and let them experiment with making music of their own.
2. Read aloud, or listen to audiobooks or radio shows. Look for topics that interest them but aren’t too complex to follow. Many older adults, especially those with dementia or vision impairment, enjoy hearing books, newspapers, magazines, or old letters read aloud to them. This is a great way for visitors (particularly children) to interact with those with dementia. Audiobooks are available for free online or from the local library, in a broad range of topics and levels of difficulty. Radio talk shows, sports games, or spiritual broadcasts are another valuable tool that can provide entertainment for your senior.
3. Movement and exercise. Getting their bodies moving helps to boost mood, circulation, and general health. Chair-based exercises or yoga are specifically designed for people with dementia. You can also play their favorite music and encourage them to clap their hands, tap their feet, sway in their seats, or even dance with you.
4. Nature. Take them for a walk outside to get some fresh air and feel the sunshine. Use a wheelchair if necessary for safety or mobility. Take them for a car ride and describe the passing scenery if they can’t see it clearly. Help them take care of an indoor windowsill garden, even if it’s just pressing dirt into a pot or sampling the harvest.
5. Videos and TV programs. Nature shows can be quite interesting, and since the narrators usually describe the animals and action, they can be enjoyable even for those who can’t see the screen. Musicals, operas, concerts, or other performances are available on YouTube, DVDs, TV, or streaming services.
6. Household chores. Getting involved around the house can help those with dementia and low vision to feel essential. They could sort silverware, fold smaller laundry items, help dump ingredients into a bowl while cooking or baking, prepare veggies (snap beans, shell peas), or prepare fruit using a safety knife or fingers.
7. Animal therapy. Animal therapy can be a wonderful way to bring comfort and calm to seniors. Spending time with a gentle, well-trained animal can provide companionship, reduce stress, and brighten someone’s day. Safety and comfort should always come first. Professional caregivers should not bring their own pets into a client’s home to avoid potential liability; instead, families may consider arranging visits from a trusted pet belonging to a loved one. Before introducing an animal, be sure your loved one is not allergic to or afraid of animals so the visit can be a safe and enjoyable experience.
8. Arts, crafts, and tactile activities. Sculpting with modeling clay or sand can be an enjoyable creative activity. Other fun activities can include smoothing out crumpled paper, making collages from magazine pictures, or sorting different shapes (pasta pieces, coins, etc.). Expressive painting can be done with broad strokes and abstract shapes, using vivid colors to make them easier to see. Fidget toys can also be satisfying.
9. Adaptive (modified) games. If your senior has some vision, they could use large-print playing cards for simple games like Go Fish or War. Oversized matching cards could also help stimulate the mind. Using giant-size dominoes can be another fun way to pass the time.

While it can be a little more challenging to find engaging activities that those with both dementia and vision impairment enjoy, the above suggestions show that it’s definitely not impossible. Be creative and don’t be afraid of some trial and error as you explore their interests and abilities.