5 Simple Ways to Engage a Loved One with Dementia (That Actually Work)
Caring for a loved one with dementia can feel like watching them slip away, little by little. The conversations fade, the hobbies they once loved no longer spark joy, and the long hours of the day stretch endlessly.
If you’ve ever thought, I just want to find something—anything—that keeps them engaged, you’re not alone. Many caregivers struggle to find activities that are meaningful, simple, and frustration-free for their loved ones.
The good news? You don’t need complicated strategies. Small, thoughtful activities can make a big difference. Here are five easy ways to bring joy, connection, and mental stimulation into their daily routine.
1. Finish the Phrase – Tap Into Long-Term Memory
Even when short-term memory fades, many people with dementia can still recall common sayings from years ago.
Try this:
- “It’s raining cats and…” (Dogs!)
- “A penny for your…” (Thoughts!)
- “The early bird gets the…” (Worm!)
This simple activity sparks confidence and conversation. Plus, it’s an easy way to share a moment of joy without pressure.
💡 Want ready-made prompts? Check out our game designed just for this.
2. Play a Simple, Adaptive Game
Many traditional games become frustrating as dementia progresses. But the right games—ones that are color-based, tactile, and don’t rely on memory—can create engaging moments.
A few favorites:
✅ Qwirkle – Matching colors and shapes, no complex rules.
✅ Mind Menders – Designed specifically for cognitive stimulation. See how it works here.
✅ Dominoes – A familiar, easy-to-learn classic.
By playing together, you’re not just passing time—you’re strengthening connections and stimulating their brain in a frustration-free way.
3. Use Music to Spark Memories & Joy
Music is powerful—it can unlock memories, calm agitation, and even encourage movement.
Try this:
🎵 Play songs from their youth or early adulthood (ages 15-30 are best).
🎶 Encourage them to sing along—even if words are hard, melodies often remain.
🕺🏽 If possible, dance or move to the rhythm, even if it’s just clapping.
💡 Need ideas? If they grew up in the 50s, try Elvis or Frank Sinatra. If the 70s, maybe The Beatles or Motown hits.
4. Give Them a “Job” to Do
Many caregivers find their loved ones become restless or fixated on small details (watching security cameras, asking repeated questions, etc.). A simple solution? Give them a task with purpose.
Some ideas:
✔️ Folding laundry
✔️ Peeling potatoes or snapping green beans
✔️ Sorting buttons by color
✔️ Matching socks
These activities help them feel useful and engaged while reducing anxiety and repetitive questioning.
5. Watch a Game Show Together
Game shows—especially those with clear patterns and simple prompts—can be a fantastic way to engage loved ones.
📺 Jeopardy! – Sparks conversation and memory recall.
📺 The Price is Right – Encourages participation without pressure.
📺 Wheel of Fortune – Fun, visual, and easy to follow.
Even if they don’t answer questions, just watching and reacting creates a moment of shared experience.
Ready to Find the Perfect Activity for Your Loved One?
Finding activities that actually work can be frustrating. That’s why we created Mind Menders—a game designed specifically to keep loved ones with cognitive decline engaged.
✔️ Simple to learn
✔️ No pressure—just fun!
✔️ Designed for memory health
🎉 Bring back the conversations you miss. See how it works here.