I find reminiscing with photo albums to be a wonderful engagement! Even if they don't recall or make up something totally different, it's interaction and getting the brain to do some "digging". My mom loves taking walks outside and I try to engage her in the different things we see (i.e., pointing out flowers, birds, clouds, animals, etc.) - again just stimulus. It drives me crazy when she just gets parked in front of a TV - there's little to no engagement in my opinion. Puzzles are great, word searches if they are able, Wii activities (bowling, sports, etc.), music therapy, hand and foot massages - wow, so many different things and dependent upon their abilities/tolerance. If there's something they enjoyed prior to their affliction, do your best to continue or at least find an outlet (i.e., gardening, reading, etc.) Keeping memories alive as much as you can is something I've worked diligently on doing with my mom - even if that means it's the "50 first dates" conversation each time we get together! Interaction, consistency, and a positive attitude will make a big difference!! Wishing you (and them!) the very best!

My mom is end care now, but she loves music! She perks up and mouths words to songs she knows and even smiles. Music is magic!

A book from Jolene Bracket creating joyful moments is very good packed with useful ideas

We did same as Barbara Manning.However some days carers too tired also.At support group we were encouraged to acknowledge ourselves also.
Music is something dementia patients don't forget.
My husband can't talk now though he can sing songs×loves it.I am no singer but like kids he loves it.
I used to tape rugby+bring him home+relive games like they were live.He loved my yahooing+felt the familiarity .
Couldnt underdstand games.
Also bought animal DVDs.for care unit.
Each patient will have hobbies they love or machinery,airports,farms,
One learns to be creative+one can get desperate as phases change.
Hugs to all you Amazing cares.Cheers Sandy

Alexa is my friend. He is amazed that she talks back and I play songs from Sinatra, Rosemary Clooney, Dean Martin etc. He knows all the words. I am trying to get him to ask her the day and time, but he has trouble remembering to preface his question with "Alexa". The technology has been a great aid in our journey.