Birthday presents for mum with dementia

[MyOtherProfile]

Inspired by a similar thread, I am looking for some nice things for my mum's birthday next month. She's in a wheelchair, no use of one hand after a stroke, dementia makes her seem disinterested in so much. She enjoys our monthly visits and going out for lunch. She used to be a big crafter.

We have previously given her framed pictures, shawl, candles, socks, personalised blanket. I can't think what else we can give her for this birthday.

Anyone had any successful ideas?

Hey, firstly it's lovely you're looking for ideas. I know it sounds silly/patronising but a pretty doll could be nice. My nan had dementia and her calmest/happiest times when it became severe was to hold a doll in her arms like a baby and care for it. Her maternal instinct kicked in and she loved it. I have also seen this with other women living with dementia x

A doll or one of those really realistic looking dogs/cats designed for someone with dementia? I know someone who got a toy dog for her mum and it seemed to bring great comfort and joy.
I'll see if I can link one....this is from the Alzheimers Society shop.
https://shop.alzheimers.org.uk/search?type=product&q=precious%20pets

How advanced is her dementia? A relative of mine enjoyed dolls, a battery operated dog that "breathed" and fiddle blankets

Photobook of family pictures, use the caption option to add names. Include family pets if you have photos of them.

Picture book of favourite animal, my Mum loved Meow when she could no longer follow a story. If she can still follow a story, a book of short stories or magazine subscription eg Yours.

Box of chocolates was always a treat

Visiting beautician to do a manicure (ditto hairdresser)

Bird feeder that sticks on the window if someone is available to refill regularly

Necklace that is long enough to fit over her head if she likes pretty things

The Meow book

Also, including pictures of herself as a child and her parents in the photo book led to some lovely conversations, long term memories often persist

My mum has dementia and one of her pleasures when I visit is listening on headphones to a Spotify playlist that I made for her. All songs from her youth and all sparking a happy feeling and familiarity that she struggles to find in every day life.

How about a little MP3 player preloaded and some headphones?

a favourite fragrance/aroma is also very evocative @MyOtherProfile

My grandaughters love fidget toys and they're very good for calming. You can get them for adults to put in their hands or a doll/teddy like pp's suggested.
A nice open tub with easy to open cakes/bisuits/sweets in.
Digital photo frame of old photos
push button clock that tells the time/dementia clock that says the day/time/afternoon etc - my dad loved his as it was easy to read.

Some excellent ideas here, thank you.

If going out for lunch is something she enjoys why not just do a special meal out. Maybe with a birthday cake and a big fuss.