Art and craft ideas for a person with dementia

Arts and crafts can be an excellent way to engage a person with dementia, offering them a creative outlet and stimulating cognitive function. You can use these activities to enhance the person’s well-being, lift their mood, and improve their motor skills. Here are some arts and crafts that work well for a person with dementia…

1. Painting and watercolouring

Painting is a soothing, low-pressure activity that allows them to express themselves freely. Using simple watercolours on paper can help them focus, while the colours stimulate their senses. Consider starting with stencils or guided painting for those with more advanced dementia.

2. Collage making

Creating a collage with magazines, coloured paper, or fabric is fun and simple. They can cut and paste images or materials that interest them, offering a way to express their tastes and memories. It also provides tactile stimulation, which can be beneficial.

3. Clay sculpting

Working with air-dry clay is a great hands-on activity that promotes fine motor skills. They can create simple objects, like bowls, animals, or even abstract shapes, giving them a sense of accomplishment when they finish.

4. Scrapbooking

For those who enjoy reminiscing, scrapbooking offers an opportunity to revisit memories. With your help, they can organise photos, add stickers, or write captions. This activity taps into long-term memory and can encourage meaningful conversations.

5. Flower arranging

For people who enjoy nature, arranging flowers is a calming activity that appeals to both creativity and sensory stimulation. It’s also a great option for those who may not want to sit still for traditional crafts.