Why I don’t use the term “Activities for Dementia”

If you are part of my membership, you may have noticed that I rarely use the phrase “activities for dementia.”

That is very intentional.

While I understand why the term is commonly used, I believe it can sometimes encourage us to think too generally about people who are wonderfully individual.

No two people are the same.

Different people live with different types of dementia, which can affect the brain and body in very different ways.

People may be at different stages and have very different needs, abilities, energy levels, and ways of engaging.

One activity will never suit everyone.

Every individual has their own HELPS™:

• Histories

• Experiences

• Lifestyles

• Preferences

• Strengths

And that is where meaningful activity truly begins.

Rather than searching for generic “activities for dementia,” I believe we should be focusing on activities that:

• spark joy

• are meaningful

• are purposeful

• evoke memories

• bring togetherness

• build connections

  
  

Sometimes purpose can be found in the simplest moments:

watering plants, folding laundry, arranging flowers, setting tables, or helping others.

These are not just tasks. They can support identity, confidence, belonging, and wellbeing.

But meaningful activities do not always need to be quiet or individual either. Group activities full of laughter, music, conversation, and fun can be incredibly valuable too.

A singalong that sparks memories

A game that encourages teamwork

A baking session filled with chatter

A quiz that creates friendly competition

A dance session that gets everyone smiling.

These shared moments can help reduce loneliness and strengthen connections between residents, relatives, and staff. Sometimes the joy comes not from the activity itself, but from simply being together.

It is also important to remember that every person may have different limitations or challenges that affect how they participate.

That is not something confined to people living with dementia.

Many older people may experience:

• hearing loss

• sight changes

• reduced mobility

• arthritis or pain

• fatigue

• anxiety

• low confidence

• communication difficulties

• dysphagia

  
  

These considerations simply remind us that adaptation matters for everyone.

A quieter space, larger materials, extra time, sensory support, seated options, or gentle encouragement can make activities more accessible and enjoyable for all residents, not just those with a dementia diagnosis.

The important thing is remembering that even group activities should still allow room for individuality. Some residents may love leading the conversation, while others are happiest quietly observing with a cup of tea in hand.

Both are valid forms of engagement.

The magic is not really in the activity itself. It is in how we adapt it to:

• relate to the individual

• engage the person

• enable participation

  
  

For me, meaningful activities are never about filling time.

They are about helping people continue to feel seen, valued, connected, and included.

When we stop asking:

“What activities are good for dementia?”

and start asking:

“What matters to this person?”

everything changes. 💚