Simple Sensory Activities to Calm and Soothe Loved Ones with Dementia

Hi, this is Gina from GoldLeaf Homecare. If you’ve cared for someone with dementia, you know there are moments when it feels overwhelming—for both you and your loved one. Dementia can cause confusion and anxiety, but sensory activities can offer comfort and calm by engaging the senses in simple, thoughtful ways. The best part? These activities don’t need to be complicated. They’re small, meaningful moments that make a big difference. 

Why Sensory Activities Matter for Dementia Care

Dementia can make the world feel confusing for our loved ones, which often leads to anxiety. Sensory activities can help by reconnecting them with things they know and love—whether it’s the softness of a blanket, the scent of lavender, or the sound of familiar music. These activities ground them in the moment and provide peace.

And the great news? Simple works best. A few intentional moments can bring immense relief.

Practical Sensory Activities to Calm and Soothe

Here are a few sensory activities to try that can easily fit into your daily routine:

1. Touch: Hand Massages or Fidget Blankets

A gentle hand massage using scented lotion can be soothing and help your loved one feel connected and cared for. Fidget blankets with different textures, like buttons or beads, are also great for keeping restless hands busy.

• Tip: Use calming scents like lavender or chamomile.

2. Smell: Aromatherapy or Memory Jars

The sense of smell can evoke comforting memories. Aromatherapy with lavender or eucalyptus can help ease anxiety, or you can create a “memory jar” with familiar scents like coffee beans or cinnamon.

• Tip: Use these scents during quiet moments for added calm.

3. Sight: Soft Lighting or Nature Views

Soft, warm lighting is more calming than harsh, bright lights. If possible, spend some time outside or by a window to take in nature’s calming sights.

• Tip: A walk outside or time in the garden can bring peace.

4. Hearing: Calming Music or Nature Sounds

Music is incredibly powerful, especially familiar songs from your loved one’s past. Nature sounds, like ocean waves or rainfall, can also help create a peaceful environment.

• Tip: Play soft music during meals or quiet times.

5. Taste: Simple Snacks

Offer familiar snacks, like a favorite fruit or cup of tea. The taste of something they love can bring comfort and spark happiness.

• Tip: Stick with simple, familiar flavors.

How to Make Sensory Activities Part of Everyday Life

You don’t need a lot of time or supplies to make sensory activities a part of your routine. Start with just a few minutes here and there:

• Start small: Try a hand massage or put on calming music.

• Be flexible: See what your loved one responds to best and build on that.

• Consistency counts: Make these activities part of the day for added comfort and predictability.

Wrapping It Up

Sensory activities are simple, yet powerful tools to calm and connect with your loved one living with dementia. By creating small moments of comfort through touch, smell, sound, and sight, you’re offering more than just peace—you’re showing love in a way that truly matters.

At GoldLeaf Homecare, we believe in caring for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. If you need more ideas or just want to chat about how to make caregiving smoother, we’re here for you.

With love and care,

Gina Martinez

President, GoldLeaf Homecare

(650) 861-8228 | www.goldleafhomecare.com