Finding Purpose in Simple Activities & Community Events

By Mary O’Toole, COMPASS Summer Intern (University of Delaware) 7.13.26

When caring for a loved one with dementia, keeping them engaged in activities they enjoy, whether long-standing hobbies or new pastimes, is an essential part of daily care.

💬 A Personal Note from Mary: " After my grandma was diagnosed with dementia, she would spend many of her Sundays at my house. Every time she was over, she would sit down with a word search. Completing word searches became her routine and for hours she would happily sit on our couch, humming softly to herself as she searched for words. Although she never did word searches prior to her diagnosis, they combined tasks she enjoyed previously of searching and organizing, making this activity a natural fit for her. The word searches were a simple activity, but it brought her comfort, gave her a sense of purpose, and helped pass the time in a way that made her happy. "

Participating in activities together supports your loved one's sense of purpose, helps them feel valued, and creates sweet opportunities to connect.

10 Practical Rules for Activity Planning

1. Keep Skills & Current Abilities in Mind

• Select the right task

• Prioritize activities your loved one has always enjoyed, but adjust them as needed to match their current capabilities.

2. Pay Attention to What They Enjoy

• Observe emotional reactions

• Take note of when your loved one seems happy and engaged versus anxious, distracted, or irritable.

  
  

3. Encourage Self-Initiated Habits

• Notice spontaneous actions

• If they naturally start an activity on their own (like setting the table before dinner), try building that task directly into their daily routine.

  
  

4. Adapt for Physical Limitations

• Account for sensory and physical needs

• Notice if they tire quickly or struggle with vision, hearing, or fine motor movements. Modify the activity so it remains comfortable.

5. Focus on Enjoyment, Not Achievement

• Let go of perfection

• Build on remaining talents and focus purely on the experience rather than completing the task "correctly."

6. Adjust to Stages of Dementia

• Pivot as needs evolve

  As dementia progresses, introduce simple, repetitive tasks and be prepared for your loved one to take on a more passive or observational role.

7. Help Get the Activity Started

• Offer initial momentum

• Many individuals retain the desire to do things but struggle with planning and initiating. Step in at the beginning to help kickstart the task.

8. Break Tasks into Simple Steps

• Prevent overwhelm

• Focus on one step at a time to keep the activity manageable and stress-free.

9. Assist with Difficult Parts & Avoid Correction

• Step in when needed

• If a step becomes too hard, offer a gentle hand and redirect them to a simpler part. Never correct them if they aren't doing it the "right" way—as long as they are engaged and safe, it is a success!

10. Watch for Frustration & Try Again Later

• Know when to pause

• If their attention wanes or frustration rises, modify or end the activity. You can always try again later or test a different time of day.

  
  

👉 [Click Here for More Activity Ideas & Inspiration] (Insert Link)

Warmly,

The COMPASS Team