Tell Me More About Therapy Dolls for Individuals with Dementia
Brian Callahan • December 26, 2023
As reported in by National Institutes of Health "our findings suggest that doll therapy improved the emotional state, diminished disturbing behaviors, and enhanced communication with the environment in dementia patients. However, randomized studies with a greater sample size and methodological rigor are needed, as well as follow-up protocols to reaffirm these results."
More, Elizabeth Cai, MSN, RN, CMSRN from the Cleveland Clinic states "caring for a doll can put structure and sense of responsibility back into the lives of
patients with dementia and provide them with comfort."
In the tender journey of caring for individuals with dementia, 7 Day Home Care recognizes there are innovative approaches that may enhance the well-being and comfort of our clients. One such compassionate initiative that can be impactful is the incorporation of therapy dolls. In the gentle embrace of lifelike dolls, some have discovered a powerful tool that not only provides emotional solace but also cultivates a sense of purpose and connection for individuals on this poignant path. Join us as we review the therapeutic realm of doll therapy.
The use of therapy dolls for individuals with dementia has roots in the concept of doll therapy, which emerged as a non-pharmacological intervention in dementia care. The origin can be traced back to the mid-20th century when pioneers in the field of geriatrics and dementia care began exploring alternative approaches to enhance the well-being of individuals experiencing cognitive decline.
Doll therapy was inspired by the idea of reminiscence therapy, which involves stimulating memories and emotions from the past as a means of improving cognitive function and overall mood. Providing individuals with dementia lifelike dolls was seen as a way to tap into their memories of nurturing, caregiving, and familial bonds.
The concept gained momentum as caregivers and healthcare professionals observed positive responses in individuals with dementia. The dolls provided a source of comfort, reduced anxiety and agitation, and offered a sense of purpose to those who may have had roles as caregivers earlier in their lives.
Over time, research and anecdotal evidence supported the notion that therapy dolls could be valuable tools in dementia care. They became a part of a broader range of non-pharmacological interventions aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with dementia.
It's important to note that while therapy dolls can be beneficial for some individuals, this approach is not universally accepted, and the use of such interventions should be approached with consideration for the individual's preferences, cultural background, and ethical considerations. The effectiveness of therapy dolls can vary from person to person, and their use should be part of a comprehensive, person-centered care plan.
Some Potential Benefits of Therapy Dolls for Dementia:
- Reduced anxiety and agitation: The act of holding and caring for a doll can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and feelings of calm. This can be especially helpful for individuals who experience anxiety or agitation due to their dementia.
- Increased social interaction: Dolls can provide a focus for conversation and interaction, both with caregivers and other residents in a care setting. This can help combat loneliness and isolation, which are common challenges for people with dementia.
- Improved mood and well-being: Studies have shown that doll therapy can lead to increased smiling, laughter, and overall improved mood in individuals with dementia. The sense of purpose and responsibility that comes with caring for a doll can also contribute to a feeling of well-being.
- Management of challenging behaviors: Dolls can be used to redirect attention away from unwanted behaviors and provide a safe outlet for expressing emotions. For example, a person who is pacing or restless may find comfort in simply holding a doll.
Here Are Some Considerations For Choosing a Therapy Doll:
- Appearance: Dolls come in a variety of styles and appearances, from realistic baby dolls to soft, cuddly animal companions. It's important to choose a doll that the individual will find appealing and comforting.
- Weight: Some dolls are weighted to feel more like a real baby, which can be comforting for some individuals. However, it's important to choose a doll that is not too heavy for the individual to handle.
- Features: Some dolls have interactive features, such as sounds or blinking eyes. These can be stimulating and engaging for some individuals, but they may be overwhelming for others.
- Safety: Make sure the doll is made from safe materials and is free of any small parts that could be a choking hazard.
Here are Some Additional Tips for Using Therapy Dolls with Individuals with Dementia:
- Introduce the doll gradually: Let the individual get used to the doll before forcing interaction.
- Follow the individual's lead: Allow the individual to decide how they want to interact with the doll. Some people may want to hold it, cuddle it, or simply have it nearby.
- Use the doll as a tool for conversation: Talk about the doll's name, age, family, or any other details that the individual finds interesting.
- Be patient and understanding: It may take some time for the individual to warm up to the doll. Be patient and encouraging, and never force interaction.
If you're considering using a therapy doll for someone you know with dementia, it's always a good idea to talk to their doctor or therapist first. They can help you choose the right doll and provide guidance on how to use it effectively. Here are some examples of therapy dolls that may be suitable for individuals with dementia:
- Cuddle dolls: These soft, huggable dolls are often made from materials like fleece or velour. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, and many have weighted features that provide a comforting sensation.
- Interactive dolls: These dolls have features that respond to touch or sound, such as blinking eyes, cooing sounds, or even singing songs. While not suitable for everyone, some individuals with dementia may find these dolls to be stimulating and engaging.
- Realistic baby dolls: These dolls are designed to look and feel like real babies. They can be especially comforting for individuals with dementia who have lost a child or who have difficulty caring for themselves.
It's important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to doll therapy. What works for one person may not work for another. The most important thing, if possible is to choose a doll that the individual will find comforting and engaging.
7 Day Home Care is dedicated to delivering specialized dementia care across the diverse communities of Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. Our compassionate and highly trained caregivers are committed to providing individualized support for those navigating the challenges of dementia. With a focus on enhancing the quality of life for our clients, we tailor our care services to meet the unique needs of each individual, fostering an environment of comfort and familiarity. Whether in the bustling streets of Manhattan or the serene neighborhoods of Suffolk County, our goal is to ensure that those affected by dementia receive the highest standard of care, allowing them to age in place with dignity and compassion. Contact us today at 516-408-0034 or view 7 Day Home Care to learn more about our affordable dementia care services in NYC and Long Island, New York.
Brian Callahan
7 Day Home Care
Best Alzheimer's and Dementia Home Care Services in Queens, New York The highly trained and experienced Home Health Aides from 7 Day Home Care provide enormous benefits to families seeking compassionate, reliable Alzheimer's and dementia in-home care throughout Queens, New York. These professionals are specifically trained in memory care techniques, enabling them to manage behavioral changes, reduce agitation, and support cognitive engagement—all while preserving the dignity and routines of each client. Their deep understanding of the progression of Alzheimer’s and dementia allows them to recognize subtle changes in condition and adapt care strategies accordingly, ensuring both safety and emotional well-being. From assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation to companionship and redirection techniques that ease confusion and anxiety, 7 Day Home Care’s aides become trusted extensions of the family. Supervised by registered nurses and following detailed, personalized care plans, these caregivers provide consistent, person-centered support that allows seniors to remain comfortably and safely at home. Their presence not only improves quality of life for individuals living with memory loss, but also offers families peace of mind, knowing their loved one is in the capable and caring hands of the leading home care agency in Queens, NY. 7 Day Home Care provides Alzheimer's and dementia home care services in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , and Long Island, New York. To learn more about our award winning elder in-home care services, please call 516-408-0034.
What is Standby Assistance in Home Care? A Guide for Families At 7 Day Home Care, we believe that standby home care offers an invaluable service for seniors and their families—one that balances safety, dignity, and independence. By having a trained caregiver present to supervise and intervene only when necessary, we help manage fall risk before it turns into a crisis, preserving mobility and confidence in the home. This proactive approach not only provides families with peace of mind, but also helps seniors avoid the dangerous spiral of a fall leading to hospitalization, followed by rehabilitation, exposure to infections, and potentially accelerated cognitive decline. With standby care, clients are empowered to maintain their daily routines while staying protected—an essential middle ground between total independence and full-time hands-on assistance. It’s thoughtful, preventative care that supports aging in place with strength, stability, and grace. Rise describes standby assistance as follows: "we all use some form of insurance, but not many of us know what it is to BE insurance. To provide stand-by assist is to be there, just in case someone needs you to help prevent a fall or injury. Stand-by assistance is for clients who can physically function on their own, but may not be safe without someone around to help in case of an emergency. Also, besides safeguarding the client against fall or injury, a stand-by assistant may set up needed equipment or supplies for the client ahead of time, while not participating in the activity. A person who provides stand-by assistance is a literal support person. The 17th-century poet Milton, in Paradise Lost, said it best: “They also serve who only stand and wait.” Stand-by assistants, by their very presence, provide a sense of added safety, security, and calm to clients. Clients know they are not alone, and if something bad happens, someone who knows what to do is right there." 7 Day Home Care provides standby home care services to manage fall risk in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , and Long Island, New York. To learn more about our award winning elder in-home care services, please call 516-408-0034.
How In-Home Care Reduces Fall Risk for Seniors at Home Falls are one of the most serious health risks facing older adults at home, often leading to a cascade of complications that extend far beyond the initial injury. A single fall can result in fractures, head trauma, or internal injuries—many of which require hospitalization and lengthy stays in skilled nursing facilities or rehabilitation centers. These disruptions can severely impact a senior’s independence, mobility, and mental health, sometimes triggering a decline in overall well-being that is difficult to reverse. According to American Academy of Family Physicians , The American Geriatrics Society and British Geriatrics Society recommend that all adults older than 65 years be screened annually for a history of falls or balance impairment. In addition to the physical toll, fall-related injuries frequently lead to increased reliance on long-term care, elevated stress for family caregivers, and significant financial burden. Preventing falls is not just about safety—it’s about protecting a senior’s health, dignity, and quality of life. A fall in an elderly person can trigger a cascading effect , leading to a decline in physical and cognitive function, increased fear of falling, social isolation, and reduced quality of life, potentially leading to further falls and injuries. 7 Day Home Care is your top home care agency in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. Please call us today at 516-408-0034 to learn more about fall prevention strategies, and explore the prospects for home care services for your loved one.
7 Tips for Alzheimer's and Dementia Care at Home: A Family Guide Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s diseas e, dementia, or any form of cognitive impairment at home is among the most demanding forms of caregiving due to the condition’s progressive nature, emotional complexity, and the constant need for vigilance. Unlike other medical conditions that may have clear treatment paths or predictable routines, cognitive decline affects every aspect of a person’s identity—memory, communication, behavior, and judgment—often changing day to day. At 7 Day Home Care, we understand that this kind of care requires not only physical assistance but also deep emotional patience, consistency, and specialized skills to manage wandering, sundowning, confusion, and challenging behaviors, all while preserving the person’s dignity and autonomy. The emotional toll on family caregivers can be immense, especially when a loved one no longer recognizes them or becomes increasingly withdrawn or aggressive. Our highly trained caregivers are equipped to meet these challenges with empathy and expertise, offering families the support they need to navigate one of life’s most complex caregiving journeys. 7 Day Home Care provides best home care agency services near you in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. To learn more about our specialized in-home care Home Health Aide services near you, please call 516-408-0034.
10 Signs Your Aging Parent Needs Home Care and What to Do Next Being proactive with an aging parent’s care can make the difference between a manageable situation and a preventable crisis. Waiting until an emergency—like a fall, hospitalization, or sudden cognitive decline—can lead to unnecessary stress, higher medical costs, and longer recovery times. Recognizing early warning signs and engaging home care services sooner rather than later allows families to maintain control, safety, and dignity for their loved one. At 7 Day Home Care, we specialize in providing compassionate, reliable, and comprehensive in-home support tailored to each individual's unique needs. Our services range from personal care assistance, medication management, and meal preparation to companionship, light housekeeping, and skilled nursing care under the supervision of licensed registered nurses. We proudly serve families across New York, including Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Long Island, Nassau County, and Suffolk County. Whether it’s a few hours a week or around-the-clock care, our certified home health aides and care coordinators work seamlessly to ensure seniors can live comfortably, safely, and independently at home. 7 Day Home Care is a top in-home care agency service provider in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. Please call us today at 516-408-0034 to explore the possibilities for home care services for your parent.
When Relying on Home Care Services Increases a Senior's Independence At 7 Day Home Care, our outstanding team of certified home health aides is dedicated to providing compassionate, professional support that empowers seniors to live safely and confidently in the comfort of their own homes. Each caregiver is carefully trained and supervised by registered nurses to ensure the highest standard of care, with personalized services tailored to meet the unique needs of every client. Whether assisting with daily activities, medication reminders, or simply offering companionship, our home health aides play a vital role in helping your elderly loved one maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life at home. 7 Day Home Care provides outstanding home care services in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , and Long Island, New York. To learn more about our top home health aide care services who can assist with helping your loved one maintain their independence at home, please call 516-408-0034.
The Benefits of 24-Hour Home Care for Seniors in New York 7 Day Home Care offers trusted, comprehensive 24-hour in-home care services throughout Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island, New York , providing families with peace of mind and seniors with the round-the-clock support they need to remain safe and independent in the comfort of their own homes. Whether your loved one requires assistance due to Alzheimer’s, dementia, chronic illness, recent hospitalization, or simply needs ongoing help with daily activities, our team of certified home health aides—supervised by registered nurses and licensed by the New York State Department of Health—delivers personalized, compassionate care tailored to each client’s unique needs. With caregivers available day and night, 7 days a week, our 24-hour care includes medication reminders, mobility assistance, personal hygiene support, meal preparation, companionship, and constant monitoring to prevent falls and respond to emergencies. As the top home care agency across New York City and Long Island, 7 Day Home Care ensures continuity, comfort, and dignity for every senior we serve.
The 3AM Dilemma: When a Home Care Agency Becomes a Lifeline Proactive planning for overnight care is one of the most effective ways to safeguard a loved one’s health, safety, and overall well-being. Many medical emergencies—such as falls, confusion from dementia, or complications from chronic conditions—happen at night when family caregivers are asleep and options for immediate help are limited. By arranging overnight home care in advance, families can prevent these crises rather than react to them. A trained caregiver ensures that seniors and individuals with health concerns receive consistent monitoring, mobility assistance, medication reminders, and help with toileting needs, all of which significantly reduce the likelihood of hospitalization. Beyond safety, a structured nighttime routine promotes better sleep, reduces anxiety, and improves long-term health outcomes. Having a professional caregiver in place also eases the burden on family members, allowing them to rest knowing their loved one is well cared for. At 7 Day Home Care, we help families develop customized care plans that address specific overnight needs, ensuring continuous support that enhances quality of life and prevents avoidable medical emergencies. 7 Day Home Care provides 24 hour care, overnight care in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. To learn more about our top home health aide care services, please call 516-408-0034.
7 Day Home Care Accepts Lincoln Financial Long Term Care Insurance Choosing 7 Day Home Care as your home care provider ensures unparalleled confidence and peace of mind, knowing you are supported by outstanding home health aides and a robust, long-standing relationship with Lincoln Financial Long-Term Care Insurance. Our meticulously trained and compassionate aides deliver exceptional, personalized care, ensuring your loved ones are in the best hands. Coupled with our seamless collaboration with Lincoln Financial, we streamline the insurance process, ensuring you receive the full benefits of your policy without the administrative burden. This synergy between top-tier care and efficient insurance coordination fosters a worry-free environment, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your loved one’s comfort, health, and well-being. 7 Day Home Care provides leading in-home care services covered by Lincoln Financial Long Term Care Insurance in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. To learn more about our top home care services, please call 516-408-0034.
Type 3 Diabetes: A Link Between Insulin Resistance and Alzheimer's 7 Day Home Care specializes in providing compassionate and professional Alzheimer’s and dementia home health aide care in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island, New York. Our highly trained caregivers offer personalized support, ensuring safety, comfort, and dignity for individuals living with cognitive decline. As a top home care agency, we believe that sharing valuable information through articles like this helps families make informed decisions about their loved ones' care. By educating the public on critical health topics, such as the connection between insulin resistance and Alzheimer’s disease, we empower families with knowledge while reinforcing our commitment to expert, high-quality home care services. 7 Day Home Care provides leading in-home care services in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. To learn more about our best home care agency services, please call 516-408-0034.