50 purposeful activities for people living with dementia

But for the estimated 447,000 Australians who live with dementia, it can be difficult to perform activities they may once have loved, even though the need to do so has not been diminished. Lack of stimulation and boredom can exacerbate the frustration of a person living with dementia, so it’s important to find activities that engage them and bring pleasure to their everyday lives.

This will be different for each person, as we all have a unique set of likes and dislikes based on our history, lived experiences, emotions and personalities - it is not a ‘one size fits all’ scenario.

Planning Activities: 10 Essential Tips

1. Understand the person:

Discover their cultural background, work history, hobbies, and treasured memories.

2. Tailor activities

For example, a former farmer may enjoy seed-sorting or planting.

3. Avoid over-stimulation

Too much noise or crowding can lead to distress.

4. Leverage daily life tasks

Simple chores like setting the table can be engaging when done together.

5. Tap into memories

Music, dance, and looking through old photos can spark joy and recollection.

6. Keep things simple

One step at a time; avoid overwhelming them.

7. Prepare a calm workspace

A clutter-free, safe, and comfortable area is essential.

8. Stay flexible

If today doesn’t go well, try again another time.

9. Match timing to energy levels

Morning people might flourish early, while others may respond better in afternoons or evenings.

10. Record and repeat

Note what works—especially useful for shared caregiving.

Each activity is matched with its purposeful benefit, and categorised by stage suitability:

Day-to-Day Tasks (Support motor skills and routine)

• Folding towels (motor coordination)
• Pairing socks (attention, sorting)
• Setting the table (routine, independence)
• Brushing teeth (daily health habit)
• Making the bed (sense of accomplishment)
• Sweeping (movement and purpose)
• Meal prep (independence, sensory input)
• Washing dishes (routine and satisfaction)

Outdoor Engagement (Sensory, physical activity)

• Walking (fresh air, mobility)
• Planting flowers/veggies (nurturing, sensory)
• Watering plants (routine, responsibility)
• Raking leaves (motor activity)
• Park visits (nature, calm)
• Bench sitting/watching the world (relaxation)
• Ball toss/kick (gentle exercise)
• Beach trips (sound, touch, environment)
• National park outings (connectedness)
• Picnics (social/food enjoyment)
• Fishing (yields calm focus)
• Swimming/aqua aerobics (movement, fun)
• Feeding ducks (simple pleasure)