Choosing a product for the right stage of dementia
When looking for a product or activity for someone with dementia it is important to know what stage of dementia that person has. If you get a product that is too difficult, it can be frustrating and isolating. Too easy and it seems patronising and distressing.
We develop products to suit the varying stages of dementia. Although there’s no hard-and-fast rule, we’ve looked at 4 key stages – Early, Early-Mid, Mid-Late, and Late - so you can easily find the right product for someone with dementia.
Not sure what level is right for you or the person you care for? We have a questionnaire that can help you find which stage the person with dementia has, and you can then use the useful stage icon on each product to see which stages it is suitable for.
Early stage
Tip: Find something that works towards a goal. A puzzle, for example, gives just the right challenge while being totally achievable.
Early-Mid stage
Tip: Choose something that can be done just for the sake of enjoyment - it's about the experience rather than the end result.
Mid-Late stage
Tip: Find something that encourages movement and engagement, or simple, achievable activities that can be done by oneself.
Late stage
Tip: Find an activity or product that engages the senses, whether through touch, sound or smell - sensory stimulation is key.