The Best Arts and Crafts Activities for People with Dementia

A study in America discovered that older people who enjoy regular arts and crafts were 73% less likely to develop mild cognitive impairment than those who didn’t.

Arts and crafts aren’t just a hobby – they can actually have a powerful impact on our mental wellbeing and cognitive health. 

So with that in mind, you might be wondering what the best arts and crafts activities are for people with dementia to enjoy if you’re a caregiver or a care home activity coordinator.

Sit back and read on, because we’ve rounded up a list of easy crafts and art-related activities to spark creativity and joy in seniors with dementia.

What are the benefits of arts and crafts for seniors with dementia?

It’s no wonder creative activities are a firm favourite in dementia care settings – here are some of the major benefits for dementia patients. 

• Stimulate memory and reminiscence
• Promote self-expression and identity 
• Ease anxiety and stress
• Improve focus and mood
• Encourage social connection
• Support fine motor skills
• Offer a sense of accomplishment

What makes a good activity for someone living with dementia?

When planning activities for a loved one or a group of care home residents, keep these factors in mind.

• Simplicity – avoid anything too complex or with too many steps, as this may cause confusion and distress.
• Familiarity – activities that remind them of former hobbies or interests can spark memory and confidence, so personalise your activities to suit the participant/s.
• Sensory appeal – bright colours, different textures, and easy-to-handle materials are great for sensory stimulation, which promotes wellbeing and boosts participation.
• Adaptability – what works one day might not work the next, so be prepared to adapt and try not to be disheartened if it doesn’t quite go to plan. 

Okay, now it’s time to get out the scissors and glue and get busy!

Easy crafts for seniors living with dementia

1. Painting and colouring

Art therapy can help to slow down cognitive deterioration, and it’s a great way to spark moments of joy.

Try watercolours, poster paints, or even sponge painting, or mix it up with simple adult colouring books or printouts with bold outlines and familiar themes (like flowers, animals, or landscapes).

Top tip: Use thick-handled brushes or pens for an easier grip, and try painting to music to create a relaxing atmosphere.

2. Collage and scrapbooking

Create a collage or add to a scrapbook using old magazines, newspapers, or fabric scraps, photos, or old postcards.

Personalise your activity to help people taking part to feel a connection – for example, our founder Emily used to cut out magazine clippings of holidays with her Nana Pauline, as she loved travelling and used to live in Spain. 

Top tip: Glue sticks can be easier (and less messy) than liquid glue.

3. Clay and dough modelling

Malleable materials like air-dry clay or homemade salt dough are brilliant for hands-on creativity. Super relaxing and highly satisfying! 

Try simple shapes, like rolling balls, flattening discs, or using cookie cutters for ease.

Top tip: Add essential oils like lavender to the dough for a relaxing sensory bonus.

4. DIY card making

Why not make cards for special occasions like birthdays, or as thank you notes, or simply to brighten up someone’s day?

This gives people with dementia the opportunity to express themselves and stay connected to family and friends.

Top tip: Keep it simple to avoid stress – use stickers, washi tape, or pre-cut shapes.

5. Textile crafts

Textile-based crafts, like sewing, knitting, or crocheting, can be lovely and calming for people with experience.

For beginners or people who struggle with dexterity, simple lacing cards or large needle-and-thread activities are a great option.

Top tip: Use bright colours and contrasting thread to help with visibility. Learn more about colour perception and dementia,

6. Nature crafts

The natural world does wonders for all of us, and is especially grounding for people living with dementia. Before crafting, you could incorporate some gentle movement by way of a nature walk to collect materials for your activity. 

Once you’ve gathered your items, try leaf rubbing, decorating plant pots, or creating a seasonal nature display using pinecones, flowers, or twigs.

Top tip: If this has inspired you, discover more nature-based activities for people with dementia.

Whichever craft idea you choose, remember to focus on connection over perfection

Remember, it’s not about making the perfect creation. Enjoying the process matters more than the end result, so take it easy and focus on fun, connection, and relaxation.

Discover our games and activities for people with dementia, explore Montessori activities for dementia, find more free dementia-friendly activities, and dive into our ultimate list of care home activity ideas.