Reindeer Washcloth: A Craft for Dementia Patients

The holidays are time when many families exchange gifts. A loved one with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia shouldn’t be left out. This easy Reindeer Washcloth craft is a fun way to usher in the holidays while making a gift that anyone can use.

As you do this craft together, play your loved one's favorite holiday music and ask them about some of the best gifts they received as a child. Share your own memories of wonderful holidays you've spent together.

When planning for the holidays, crafts like this can help a person with dementia prepare for the upcoming change in routine. Read our tips for planning a successful holiday meal to ensure that everyone who will be a part of your holiday celebration is able to enjoy it to the fullest. Remember that it's okay to do less this year to reduce the stress for you and your loved one.

What You’ll Need:

• 1 washcloth
• 1 bar of soap
• 2 brown pipe cleaners - cut approximately 8 inches long
• 4 brown pipe cleaners - cut approximately 2 inches long
• 1 red pom pom
• 2 googly eyes
• 1 bottle basting glue
• 1 rubber band
• 1 ribbon

Steps:

1. Spread the washcloth out in front of you like a diamond.
2. Place the soap in the center.
3. Fold the washcloth so the top point meets the bottom point.
4. Bring the right point together with the left point.
5. Secure the gathered ends of the washcloth with a rubber band and adjust the ends so they become the reindeer's ears.
6. Attach the small pieces of brown pipe cleaner to the longer pieces to make antlers.
7. Tuck the long end of the antlers into the rubber band.
8. Using the basting glue, add eyes and a nose.
9. Tie the ribbon around the washcloth so it covers the rubber band.

Caregiver tips:

1. The basting glue used for the eyes and nose is water soluble and dissolves in the washing machine, so the washcloth can be used after one wash.
2. Like everyone else, your loved one with dementia enjoys gifts that reflect the things they love. Read our five gift suggestions.
3. Get your loved one involved by starting the activity yourself and asking them to join in.
4. Activities have the best chance of success in the morning between breakfast and lunch when your loved one is well rested, and that’s also the best time especially as seasons change and sundowning can be developed. If they don’t want to participate or get frustrated, don’t force it. Try again at another time.
5. Remember that the goal is for you to have fun doing the activity. Don’t worry about what the end result looks like.
6. If your loved one has dementia, a hospice care team can provide support for both the patient and family. This added assistance can be key in avoiding caregiver burnout.

See more dementia craft ideas and caregiver tips on our Pinterest board.

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