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Spending time outside the home can bring joy, stimulation, and a comforting sense of normality to people living with dementia. Whether it’s a short stroll in the park or a day trip to an orchard, the right kind of outing can support well-being, encourage social interaction, and spark positive memories.
Here are some tried-and-tested ideas for dementia-friendly days out that combine gentle activity, sensory stimulation, and meaningful connection.
1. Walk in the park
Walking is one of the most beneficial dementia activity ideas on this list. It's also one of the most popular activities in dementia care homes.
Taking a regular stroll may positively impact their physical and mental health. It also:
- Allows social connections among older adults.
- Gives nature lovers a chance to spend time outside.
- Provides structure and focus.
- Allows important time for letting off steam.
If your loved one frequently wanders from home, this may help keep them safe. For example, they might need to walk, so they go out unattended. Walking with them is much safer.
A person with dementia may also enjoy playing board and card games in the park. You could look into social groups that meet in public parks. Joining a group can foster social relationships.
Browse our dementia products for nature lovers here.
2. Gardening Visits or Garden Walks
Visiting public gardens, community allotments, or garden centres can be a deeply soothing experience. Gardening-related outings are great for people who enjoy sensory engagement, from the smell of cut grass to the sight of vibrant blooms.
Benefits include:
- Exposure to natural light, which helps with sleep and bone health.
- Reducing agitation and providing focus.
- A sense of achievement and connection to nature.
For those unable to garden directly, visiting a garden-themed sensory trail or botanical garden can offer the same calming benefits.
3. Feeding the birds
Birds can naturally help people living with dementia interact with their environment. Outdoor activities like feeding or bird watching can revitalise a person physically, mentally and socially.
The healing power of nature works to:
- Improve depression.
- Promote positive interaction with care workers.
- Enhance well-being.
- Develop patience.
- Improve cardiovascular health.
You can attract birds to your community or home by providing the following:
- Food - birdseed, nuts, fruit, or nectar.
- Water - bird baths allow water to drink and bathe.
- Nests - nesting areas to raise young will help keep them around.
- Shelter - areas for birds to hide from predators and weather.
There are also excellent art kits for bird lovers who can't always get outside. Also, even resting outside watching birds instead of inside increases positive feelings, and the fresh air helps decrease tiredness.
4. Picnics & barbecues
Group activities for adults with dementia often include picnics and barbecues. It allows an opportunity to eat and socialise with others.
With dementia, friends aren't always easy to make. The more opportunities for socialisation, the better. Music can be incredibly beneficial for dementia, and dancing is another way to have fun. Also, grab a deck of cards and plan an easy card game to play while the food is cooking.
We naturally link food and sharing meals to intense emotions and great comfort. Helping a loved one prepare a nutritious dish safely for the event can give them a great sense of accomplishment.
5. Fruit picking
Visiting orchards and small farms allows those living with dementia to get fresh air and mild exercise. They can also stock up on healthy foods.
Again, this is another opportunity for your loved one to experience fresh air and sunlight while engaging their senses in the natural world around them. Spending time walking through the trees and fields is also an easy way to boost energy and positivity.
Children can also enjoy the activity. That quality time benefits both the child and the person with dementia. Doing activities together helps strengthen family connections while creating new memories.
6. Local Museum or Gallery Visits
Cultural venues are increasingly offering dementia-friendly hours, quiet sessions, or guided tours. A visit to a small museum or art gallery can stir meaningful memories and offer a peaceful escape.
Look for:
- Relaxed visiting times.
- Exhibitions with familiar themes (e.g. transport, local history).
- Audio guides or sensory rooms.
Many venues also have on-site cafés, offering a chance to reflect together afterwards.
7. Seaside Day Trips
A day by the sea, even for just a couple of hours, offers multi-sensory stimulation. The sound of waves, smell of salt air, and feel of sand between the fingers can all trigger happy memories and soothe anxiety.
Plan ahead:
- Bring layers, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Choose a quieter beach with flat walking paths or a promenade.
- Consider off-season visits when it’s less crowded.
A simple paddle in the water or watching boats pass by can be grounding and joyful.
8. Visit to a Garden Centre or Farmers’ Market
A trip to a local garden centre can be a gentle and fulfilling outing, especially for people who previously enjoyed gardening. Similarly, markets offer a mix of sensory experiences - from the smell of baked bread to the sound of local musicians.
Ideas include:
- Browse plants or seasonal produce.
- Stop for tea and cake in an on-site café.
- Chat with local stallholders or just enjoy people-watching.
These visits don’t require much walking and can be easily tailored to suit the person’s energy levels.
9. Animal Experiences
Being around animals is known to ease anxiety and boost mood. Plan a visit to a petting farm, animal sanctuary, or even a dog-friendly café.
Animal-focused outings can:
- Encourage gentle interaction and emotional connection.
- Promote conversation and reminiscence.
- Offer comfort through touch and observation.
Some zoos and farms also offer accessibility days or relaxed viewing times for people with dementia.
10. Community Events or Memory Cafés
Memory cafés or dementia-friendly meet-ups offer a sense of belonging and structure. Travelling to a new venue for an event — even in the next town — can feel like a mini adventure.
Activities often include:
- Live music or singalongs.
- Themed afternoons or seasonal celebrations.
- Arts and crafts or dancing.
Many are held in churches, community halls or even cafés. Look up listings on Alzheimer’s Society or Dementia UK to find upcoming events.
Tips for Planning a Successful Day Out
When planning a day trip for someone with dementia, it helps to consider:
- Their current ability and energy levels. Choose outings that won’t overstimulate.
- The time of day. Many people with dementia feel more alert in the morning.
- Familiarity. Revisiting known places can help reduce anxiety.
- Accessibility. Check for toilets, parking, shaded areas, and step-free routes.
- Participation. Let them watch or take part as they wish — no pressure.
- Companionship. Even a short outing with a trusted companion can be meaningful.
Please review our guide to the stages of dementia and Alzheimer's to learn more about what your loved one is capable of at their stage of dementia. You can also use our tool to help identify your loved one's dementia stage based on their symptoms.
Find The Perfect Activity for Your Loved One with Relish
At Relish, we have a wide range of dementia-friendly products for all stages of dementia, perfect for engaging your loved one. Our products include fidget toys, group games, and marble mazes. Visit our shop to see the full range.
