Later stage activities

A person in the later stages of dementia should be helped to be as stimulated and engaged as possible. 

Familiar tasks could still interest them, though they might be more interested in the process than end results.

'Some people enjoy handling pieces of fabric, dolls or cuddly toys, or being able to "fiddle".'

Small signs – a facial expression, sound or movement – may tell you how someone is responding to an activity. 

Take time to talk to them, perhaps reading aloud, and play their favourite music. Gentle hand massage can also be soothing.

Some people enjoy handling pieces of fabric, dolls or cuddly toys, or being able to ‘fiddle’, such as by folding material or undoing knots. These can be incorporated into specially made activity blankets and cushions or ‘twiddle muffs’.

There may be ways to stimulate the person’s senses of smell and taste, perhaps using herbs and fruit.

Can they see pictures or brightly coloured objects from where they are, or could you position them to see a fish tank or window view? Is it possible to help them move around for a change of scene?

Next steps

• More ideas are included in our guide Taking part: activities for people with dementia, at a reduced price of £15 plus postage via our online shop.
• Our shop offers a games and activities range, with products to suit people at different stages of dementia.