Dementia-Friendly Outings in and Around Dallas

A woman looks at art hanging in the Dallas Museum of Art

Everyday activities that used to be simple can become more challenging for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Planning an outing with your loved one can be complicated by their symptoms and unpredictable behaviors as dementia progresses. Although the changes brought on by dementia can be a challenge, it doesn’t mean you have to stay at home! With a little extra planning and patience, it’s possible to enjoy dementia-friendly activities in and around Dallas with your loved one.

Prepare for a Successful Outing with Your Loved One

Joining your loved one in activities you both enjoy can provide a sense of purpose and joy in life. It’s also a great way to spend quality time together. Here are some tips to help you plan a dementia-friendly outing with your loved one:

Choose familiar places to go. Your loved one may enjoy returning to familiar places even more than discovering new ones. There’s a comfort in seeing familiar sights and knowing what to expect.
Find a quiet time to visit. Check the hours of operation and plan your visit during less busy times. For example, choose a weekday instead of a weekend to visit a museum. Or plan a shopping trip early in the morning so you’ll be there when a store opens and before it becomes crowded with other shoppers. Helpful tip: Google Maps will estimate peak hours of every day of the week and can help you plan the best times to go.
Look for ways to tie in what they love. For someone who is a big sports fan with lots of memories in sports stadiums, you could look into taking a small group tour of the stadium for a behind-the-scenes experience. This could provide a meaningful way to connect with your loved one without the loud noises and unpredictability of going to a game.
Stick to a schedule. It’s best to plan outings around your loved one’s meal time and bedtime routines to minimize confusion and disorientation. Shorter outings are usually best for someone with dementia; it’s important to have engaging experiences followed by down time to help them relax and recharge.

Activities for Seniors in Dallas

From a calming trip to a sculpture garden to a hands-on art experience at the Dallas Museum of Art, there are lots of things you can do together with your family member or spouse with mild to moderate dementia. Here are a few ideas for fun activities for seniors in Dallas, TX:

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. Enjoy the natural beauty of this 66-acre Arboretum featuring a plethora of unique gardens on the shores of White Rock Lake. Take in an educational program or visit the life science laboratory. The Arboretum provides wheelchairs and trams on a first-come, first-served basis for those with walking limitations. Learn more about Arboretum accessibility when planning your visit.

Dallas Museum of Art. Spend a few hours at the Dallas Museum of Art, where your loved one can connect with art in the galleries. The museum offers a program designed specifically for individuals with early stage dementia and their family members or care partners on the third Tuesday of every month. The program, called Meaningful Moments, includes an interactive component and art-making activity led by museum staff. There is no cost for the program, but reservations are required. Learn more about participating in the Dallas Museum of Art’s Meaningful Moments Program with your loved one.

Dog Parks in Dallas. Dog lovers will enjoy an outing to one of the many local Dallas dog parks. Even if you don’t have a dog, you can find a bench to sit on and watch the dogs play. Spending time at a dog park provides entertainment and interaction for someone with dementia who loves being around dogs. Check out Dallas Park & Recreation’s list of dog parks in Dallas.

George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. The George W. Bush Presidential Center is a nonpartisan institution showcasing the values of freedom, opportunity, accountability and compassion. Visitors can participate in self-guided tours of permanent and special exhibits, with handheld audio guides included with admission. If your loved one has an interest in the history of the American presidency, planning a visit to the Bush Center may spark their interest.

Nasher Sculpture Center. Discover a calm and sensory-friendly place to explore modern and contemporary sculpture at the Nasher Sculpture Center. The entire museum is wheelchair accessible, and the outdoor sculpture garden is designed for visitors with limited mobility. Learn more about planning a visit to the Nasher Sculpture Center.

We’re Here to Support Your Loved One’s Memory Care Journey

At Signature Pointe, we believe in celebrating each individual’s unique talents and interests so they can live life to the fullest with dementia. Our skilled and compassionate team uses a person-centered approach to dementia care that improves the lives of residents and their families. Contact us to learn more about our innovative Memory Care program in Dallas, TX.