Age- and stage-appropriate activity has long been recognized to alleviate many of the behavioral symptoms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Activity books can add reminiscence, cognitive stimulation, and a host of other benefits to an enjoyable mental exercise.
Activity books for dementia is one category of books that we do sell, and we are always looking for the best ones. If there are any that you especially like, but don’t see listed here, please let us know.
Click on the book title to go to the store.
Interactive Books for Memory Impaired Adults by Mathew Schneider & Deborah Draper, BSN, RN
Available individually or as a set of 8 books. Interesting facts and captivating, full-color photographs. Each page of each book will enchant, delight, and enlighten the reader. Includes Informative Facts, Innovative Conversation Starters, and Practical Activities. Features Vivid Photography and Large-Print Text written in Clear, Concise, Easy-to-Read Sentences
The Saturday Evening Post Americana Coloring Book 
by Marty Nobler
Psychologists have likened coloring to meditation. The process allows the mind to focus on a single task, to step away from everyday problems, and to relax. Tuning into the present like that is one of the reasons that activity in general is so beneficial for people with dementia. Furthermore, coloring the patterns in books is a terrific activity for care partners to share; a way to relax together.
This book, and several others listed here, combines the activity of coloring with the benefits of reminiscing.
Failure Free Activities for the Alzheimer’s Person: A Guidebook for Caregivers and Families by Carmel Sheridan
The safe, reassuring activities in this book have many benefits-from letting the patient feel capable and involved to helping to keep the world from slipping away. The activities also become a goldmine of ideas for helping relatives and friends interact in a positive way with the Alzheimer’s person.
Spot The Differences various
Two seemingly identical pictures actually have several differences. Some are obvious, others not so much. Finding the differences exercises the brain and the process of visual perception. The original artwork pieces are well known and can inspire reminiscent conversations – an added benefit.
Strengthen Your Mind, Volumes One & Two by Kristin Einberger & Janelle Sellick
70 engaging activities will stimulate the minds, memories, and senses of older adults. Designed especially for individuals with early memory loss, the short, one-page worksheets strengthen brain functioning, promote social interaction, and provide hours of meaningful enjoyment.
Use It, Don’t Lose It by Marge Engleman
This easy-to-use workbook has 31 exercises in categories like Memory, Sketching, Trivia, Spatial Ability, Word Games, and Imagination. Some exercises have specific answers, while other depend on individual opinions or choices. Use It, Don’t Lose It is ideal for mental fitness groups or individual puzzling, and provides high-quality, colorful pages are perforated to easily tear out; answers included.
Coloring Books for Seniors various
Adult coloring books are gaining popularity at an amazing rate. The reasons are simple. Psychologists have likened coloring to meditation. The process allows the mind to focus on a single task, to step away from everyday problems, and to relax. Coloring the patterns in books is a terrific activity for care partners to share; a way to relax together.
According to CNN Health, “Just like meditation, coloring also allows us to switch off our brains from other thoughts and focus only on the moment, helping to alleviate free-floating anxiety. It can be particularly effective for people who aren’t comfortable with more creatively expressive forms of art.” That is just the kind of effect we want when developing therapies for dementia persons.
Please tell us about your favorite activity books for dementia.
First name is sufficient. The more information you supply, the better we like it. We especially like your personal comments and critique. But, if all you have is a title, we can take it from there.
Organizations & Affiliations
Purple Angel Ambassador
Dementia Friendly America
