Autumn Activities to Enjoy With a Loved One Living With Dementia

Getting outside can be a lovely way to enjoy autumn together. If your loved one feels comfortable, take a gentle walk somewhere familiar, enjoy the leaves changing, collect some colourful orange leaves or simply sit outside (with a coat) with a cup of tea. Gardening can also be a lovely activity to enjoy together - this autumn our Alton & Bordon Care Professional, Mia, has been gardening with her client, enjoying some fresh air while spending time on a simple, shared activity.

At home, activities can provide a comforting way to spend time together. Think about hobbies your loved one has enjoyed throughout their life and find simple ways to continue them. Whether that is listening to music, looking at old photos, gardening or baking a familiar recipe. You could make a seasonal favourite, such as an apple crumble or soup.

Creative activities can also be adapted to suit different abilities. Try colouring, painting or making simple autumnal decorations; there is no need to focus on the finished result, just the enjoyment from doing an activity together. 

There is no right or wrong way to spend time with someone living with dementia. Some days might involve going for a walk or cooking together (see Mia's inspiration!), while others might simply mean listening to music, watching a film together or having a slice of cake. 

What matters is choosing activities that feel familiar, enjoyable and manageable for your loved one, while adapting them depending on how they are feeling that day. Even the simplest moments can provide opportunities for connection, companionship and enjoyment.

This autumn, why not make time for the little things? A favourite song, a familiar recipe, a walk in crisp air or an afternoon spent together.