Would my dad be motivated by a coloring book?

Childrens wood puzzles were recommended to a friend. So I lent her my daughters old ones.

I feel if they didn't do it before they won't do it after. The memory has to be there somewhere. You can't teach a Dementia person something new. They no longer retain. I would try but don't be disappointed if he doesn't want to.

What I would do is sing with him. Take an instrument he used to play. My Aunt was well into ALZ when she was found in the common area playing the piano. Take a portable player with his favorite songs. Music seems to be the one thing they still can enjoy.

My Mother is in SNF and has Dementia. they color from regular coloring books and the adult coloring books. Mom still stays in the lines. They do a lot of artsy stuff. My mom was never artistic. I just donated my adult coloring books and pencils to the Activities Ladies.

I have wondered a bit about this myself and wondered if there might be some games or such at the local library to try before buying.
Anyone have any information along those lines. Maybe something electronic that would offer a mild challenge .

Assuming that your father is well cared for in the Assisted Living facility, I am not worried about him. I am worried about you.

Specifically, my heart goes out to your longing that your clever, creative, inquisitive father goes on using his brain. I think you are probably empathising with him, and imagining to yourself the horror of being trapped in a nightmare of tedium and inactivity.

By all means offer him the colouring book - it sounds like a great choice, nothing twee or airy-fairy about it - and perhaps it will stimulate his interest. But prepare yourself in advance in case it sits there untouched.

I got my mother a map jigsaw, thinking that it wasn't too childish and she could use her good general knowledge to complete the puzzle easily, and it would encourage her. She remembered her manners all right and thanked me nicely but she couldn't do the puzzle. It was one of those moments that makes you wail internally.

Mind you. Even if your father doesn't use his book, you can when you visit him, and it will give you a focal point for conversation with him.

Would you like to say a little more about the idea that he may move home soon?

I think the coloring book is a great idea. I actually enjoy coloring when I get a chance.
I have seen many dementia patients who enjoy coloring. Try it out and see.
Does he have any instruments?Maybe he would still know how and enjoy playing?
And Happy Birthday to your Dad!

You never know until you try. My mother, with advancing dementia and also Macular Degeneration, just sat because she couldn’t see to read or watch television. I’m not certain she would have been interested in those anyway. People with dementia live in their own minds.

You didn't ask for advice on this, but why are you considering moving him back home? You do know that his disease will only advance, right? He will need constant care and supervision. Will he be living with you? Are you financially, physically and emotionally able to do this? Give this very, very careful consideration before you bring him home. It’s a noble idea but can go very, very bad,y.