Whenever possible, expose your loved one to babies of all types. I have never seen a person experiencing dementia not smile or brighten up just a bit when they see babies of any kind.
Look up pictures and videos of baby humans and animals, and sit and enjoy with them (incredible that we can improve our day by simply joining our companion in what we believe they will enjoy!), on a screen large enough for them to see clearly.
Visit local animal shelters to see puppies and dogs and possibly hold kittens and cats. I like to call beforehand and share that I would like to bring my companion experiencing dementia to enjoy the animals and see what their policies are for us holding the cats or kittens and walking through the dog kennels. I assure the shelter that I will always be with my companion. Through my happy and confident approach, I let people see a different side of dementia, that people experiencing dementia are simply humans with the need for an understanding companion. Some shelters have large rooms where we can go in and let the cats walk around us, or we can hold the cats. We tell our companions what a gift it is that we can help socialize the cats and make it more likely that they will get adopted, so we help them feel a boost in their ability to help, a rare experience in dementia.
In the Spring, look for ponds or lakes where geese or ducks have their babies. Find a nice place to sit and watch the little ones grow. Go back often to watch them grow.
As I use my attention skills to remain in the moment with my companion, I walk away from these enjoyable experiences feeling less stressed and happier, and so does my companion.
