As we step into 2026, I wanted to share something I’d personally keep in my notes app.
When you’re caring for someone with memory loss, it’s easy to feel like you have to do everything “right.” In real life, most days are more like this: try one thing, adjust, try again.
So here are 26 small ideas I’ve seen help families—and that I come back to in my own occupational therapy work. You don’t need to do all of them. If even one tip makes a tough moment a little easier, that’s a win.
26 Ideas You Can Try (One at a Time)
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Aim for “calm” over “perfect.”
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When you can, keep the day predictable (same order, same cues).
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Give two choices instead of open-ended questions.
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Use short sentences, then pause (longer than feels comfortable).
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Say their name first before you speak.
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Match the emotion, not the facts.
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Repeated questions often need a repeated, gentle answer.
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Turn down background noise during conversations.
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Bright light helps more than we think—especially in winter.
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Put the “next step” where they can see it (shoes by the door, cup on the counter).
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Use simple visual cues: labels, photos, “this way” signs.
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Choose activities that feel like success (easy enough to finish).
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Break tasks into one step at a time.
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Praise effort, not accuracy.
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Shorter visits can be better than long ones.
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Use a consistent “script” for common tasks (same words each time can reduce confusion).
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Music can reset a moment fast—one familiar song can shift the mood.
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When things get tense, soften your voice and slow down your body.
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Try guiding “hand-under-hand” instead of grabbing hands.
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If hands are restless, offer a simple purposeful motion (folding, sorting, holding).
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In late afternoon/evening, lower stimulation and simplify plans.
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Mealtime tip: smaller portions and finger foods can reduce frustration.
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If behavior shifts suddenly, check basics first: pain, hunger, bathroom, temperature, fatigue.
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Keep easy conversation starters nearby: old photos, familiar objects, favorite songs.
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When words aren’t working, switch from explaining to showing.
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Caregiver reminder: you deserve support too. This is hard, and you’re not meant to do it alone.
Before You Go
Take a second and choose one tip from the list to try this week—just one. Small changes are often what make the biggest difference.
And if you’d like more practical, OT-informed support in 2026, you can subscribe to my emails (and get updates when new articles, printables and caregiver ideas are posted).
