I was reading an online obituary this morning, and in it was a mention of "Montessori Methods of Dementia" Interesting website. This company is based in Canada, but I am sure there must be others.
I couldn't get to the original site briegull* posted, but I did read the site you posted bqd. In researching it further I found it interesting that this is basically what I have been doing with Lynn, but didn't know it had a name. I just used common sense in trying to find ways to engage him.
When I first started searching for Alzheimer's items, they were basically baby toys. Just in the last few years I have seen great improvement in the way they market and manufacture activities and "toys" for the dementia victims.
I believe that stimulation is vital. I spend a great deal of time searching the web for another new gadget that I think might not only stimulate Lynn, but bring him happiness. Some are huge hits, some complete failures. We just need to go with our gut, and never give up trying to engage them. Each smile, each laugh, makes it all worthwhile ♥
If you are interested in seeing some of the items they now have, here is a site I often use. http://www.ssww.com/therapy-and-rehab/?brws_pos=TOPHM
Lynn is late stage, his poor hands have contracted. To try to help with this I buy movement items that he works in his hands. He was a master builder, so this does engage him very well. It truly has helped his hands a great deal!! He also to this day loves hitting and tossing the bigger balls. When he couldn't manage the standard beach ball anymore, I found easier balls on the above site. I think he has almost all of them :)
He is still very visual as well. Fiber optic, fish tanks and lava lamps have been a big success. Just keep trying and searching until you find something your spouse enjoys or finds comfort in.
I Googled 'Montessori Method for Dementia" - found several interesting articles. Dan is, at this moment at least, not near ready for something like this, but it's good to have the information ready at hand when the time comes. I bookmarked a few of the articles.
I agree Nikki that a lot of it is common sense and going with your gut. My DH isn't ready for it yet, in fact right now he is more engaged now than he was a year ago! How I wish that would last!
Thanks for providing the website for the gadgets you use. I've bookmarked it (my list of bookmarked sites related to AD is beginning to become greater than all other bookmarked sites put together). At least I am getting prepared, which is all I can do right now.