What activities can help redirect a loved one with Alzheimer's who keeps trying to pick up items to take home?
It sounds really exhausting, and you're doing a wonderful job looking for ways to help her feel settled. Since puzzles and word searches haven't clicked, here are some other ideas that may work better for her Show Full Answer
What activities can help redirect a loved one with Alzheimer's who keeps trying to pick up items to take home?
It sounds really exhausting, and you're doing a wonderful job looking for ways to help her feel settled. Since puzzles and word searches haven't clicked, here are some other ideas that may work better for her. Hands-On Activities
Keeping her hands busy with familiar, purposeful tasks can help redirect that urge to collect things:
- Sort items like buttons, coins, or screws into groups
- Fold laundry or organize a drawer together
- Use fidget toys or a weighted blanket to ease restlessness
- Give her a small object to handle, like a tape measure or soft ball Conversational and Memory Activities
Talking about the past can be very comforting. Try:
- Looking through old family photos together
- Asking her about childhood memories or favorite family traditions
- Sharing stories or reading a favorite family recipe aloud Music and Movement
Playing familiar music from her younger years can brighten mood and shift focus. If she's able, a short walk or even a little dance together can work wonders.
A myALZteam member shared that playing audiobooks and music helped their mother feel happier and more engaged. Remember, what works one day may not work the next, so having a few options ready is really helpful. If the behavior continues or causes distress, it's worth mentioning to her doctor, as sometimes these behaviors can be linked to underlying discomfort or anxiety that may be treatable.
August 14
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