Does anyone have any suggestions for simple activities that can be done independently by early stage dementia patients?

Since she likes knitting, how about lacing cards?

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=lacing+cards+for+adults&crid=30D59V94FT09Z&sprefix=lacing+%2Caps%2C225&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_9_7

You can also search Alzheimers Activities on Amazon for other ideas to keep your mom busy.

Good luck!

I would recommend coloring as well. I've seen videos of it being used for a group of patients, painting whatever they want in a very free style method. Coloring books for adults could be used, or models such as flowers. It doesn't make any difference what the end result is; it's the process of concentration and refocusing on an object and trying to recreate it that's important.

PD for Parkinson's is also used for some folks with early or later stage dementia. There are videos to watch, and professional ballet dancer created routines adapted specifically to older folks, or those with Parkinson's. I don't know if the videos are downloaded or if they can be watched online, which I think is actually the case.

If there are balance issues though, it might be better for her to be accompanied, by you or a therapist, to ensure that she isn't injured by falling off a chair or something similar.

That's even a possibility for more patients where she is, if it weren't for the distancing issues.

It's a toughie. I suppose you could try word puzzles, jig saw puzzles, adult coloring books, audio books, old tv shows, music channel on cable, or FOLDING clothes, etc. Right now, senior day centers are not likely to be open. You can check your area. I'd try to adjust expectations regarding someone with dementia engaging themself with an activity. People with dementia often have what is called loss of initiative. Meaning they may see a tv remote, but, not think to turn it on. They may see a magazine before them, but, not think to pick it up. They may see food on a tray, but, not think to eat it.

What I found, is that if the person is able to do still do the activity, they will continue doing it and then when they can't, they stop, because, it holds little interest to them. They can't keep up, can't stay focus or don't have the ability to engage. That's why having someone supervise the activity is so important and without that, it's not likely they will engage in an activity for very long. All you can do is try. Please post about what you discover. I'd love to know how it turns out.