Mom, stage 6, wants a job. Naturally, she is not getting one. I'm thinking a doll may comfort her. I've researched them. Thoughts?

My grannie had a baby (doll) and she held it and rocked it, talked to it, checked her diaper, changed clothes and just adored her.

We would go to the thrift store and get new outfits and make a fuss over the baby. It worked for us.

However, your mom may find it insulting that you give her a baby doll. You say she is delusional most of the time and not in memory care, has she been assessed lately to ensure that she is getting the proper level of care? I worry about delusions causing fear and that their is someone close to reassure her if that happens. Anyway, you really just have to try and try until you find the solution for her.

Maybe a stuffed animal that needs care for a while? If the baby doesn't fly.

Best of luck, it is challenging.

I was going to buy one of those expensive dolls that look like a real baby, etc. but the shipment kept getting delayed so I went to Toys R Us found a doll for under $30 and it worked great.  Check out the toy stores before spending a lot of money.

I would LOVE to receive the GIFT of a beautiful, durable doll with a wardrobe and even perhaps a tea set or some “care” tools.
If someone were to say to me “I thought this doll was SO DELIGHTFUL, and it reminded me of when you taught me how to take care of my toys (collected dolls....told Aunt Marion you loved her doll collection.... whatever you think might entice her interest) when I was a child. I couldn’t wait for you to see it. Let me leave ‘her’ with you for a day or two to decorate your room”, I’d be delighted.
Then leave it, and observe if/how she utilizes it. Don’t define the new addition to her room by your terms, but let Mom define it by her terms.
If Mom seems to be relating to the doll, ask her what her name is, or if she stays her room and so on.
May or may not work, but this is dementia. See if Mom will choose to engage!

Great idea! I wouldn't present it to her. Let her discover it. Get the little basinette. Lay the doll in it and just be patient for the reaction. And do not get disappointed if mom does not bond with the doll. She may not like it or she may warm to it immediately. Just be patient and don't force it. Watch from a distance, no anxiety for you either. Do not over think this.

It’s a wonderful idea and definitely worth a try. Just don’t overthink it. “Mom, look at what we received today!” Show her and then let her take it from there. Even if she is not initially receptive, she may be later on as her cognitive status declines. It sounds like she wants to feel useful and productive. Perhaps you can talk to someone at the AL about letting her assist with activities, folding washcloths, setting tables...something that can be her “job.” Hope it works out and please update us!

A friend’s Mom living in Memory Care had a whole collection of baby dolls in a basket by her rocking chair. She spent hours rocking her babies. She had them named after her children, even though she no longer recognized her children when they came to visit. Others were named after her nieces and nephews.

Getting your mom a baby doll to care for is an EXCELLENT idea! Many dementia and Alzheimer's residents where I work (in a Memory Care community) carry around their baby dolls & get a tremendous amount of comfort from doing so. Be sure to get a blanket to swaddle her in as well.

I hope it works!! Good luck