20 January 2026

Stories | Aged Care Homes

In this article:

• How sensory activities support brain health, mood and social connection for older people, including those living with dementia
• Simple ways to engage the five senses in everyday life
• Practical sensory activities for elderly people to lift quality of life in residential aged care settings 

Sensory activities

Sensory activities are designed to gently stimulate sight, sound, smell, taste and touch. They don’t need to be complicated – they could be as simple as sharing a pot of tea, planting herbs in the garden, or colouring in with bright pencils. 

For older people, especially those living with dementia or limited mobility, these activities can make a real difference. They support cognitive health, lift mood and create opportunities for connection with family, friends and carers. 

Why sensory activities matter

Our senses may become less sharp as we age, affecting how we experience the world. For people living with dementia, this change can feel even greater. Sensory activities help bridge the gap by stimulating the brain and creating moments of pleasure and connection. 

• For the brain: Research shows that activities engaging more than one sense can help keep the mind active, spark communication and lift mood, while also enhancing overall quality of life. 

• For emotional wellbeing: Activities that engage the senses can also reduce agitation, lower stress and bring comfort. 

• For social connection: Shared activities such as baking, gardening or music – can create moments of interaction and belonging. 

It’s also important to remember that the best activities are those that reflect a person’s life story and interests. Something familiar – woodworking for a former carpenter, sorting buttons for someone who once worked in fashion –  can be far more meaningful than a generic activity.

Timing matters too. Offering an activity when someone is most alert and relaxed makes it more enjoyable, while routines help bring a sense of predictability and calm. 

The five senses and how to engage them

Each sense offers an opportunity to enhance wellbeing. Even the simplest of moments – smelling a rose, listening to the rain, or sipping a hot chocolate – can help someone feel more connected and present. Here are some ideas:

Sight

Colourful flowers, family photos, and seasonal decorations brighten a room and help spark conversation.

Sound

Favourite songs, sounds from nature, wind chimes, or the simple ticking of an old clock can trigger happy memories and soothe anxiety.

Smell

Aromas from herbs, baking, the smell of the ocean, or a favourite perfume can unlock powerful associations and feelings of comfort.

Taste

Slices of citrus, a cup of flavoured tea, or a tasting of different honeys, can gently encourage appetite and create shared memories.

Touch

The softness of an angora blanket, the smooth glide of satin ribbons, or the creative play of clay modelling can all bring a sense of comfort and reassurance.

10 sensory activity ideas for older adults

Here are ten practical ideas that can be adapted to suit different needs and preferences: 

1. Scented memory boxes – Fill with dried herbs, spices, flowers, or small scented items to awaken memories and encourage conversation.

2. Simple baking sessions – Smelling cinnamon, kneading dough and tasting freshly baked goods can be both comforting and joyful.

3. Knitting or crocheting – Handling wool offers a tactile stimulation and, for those with past experience, a sense of familiarity.

4. Pet therapy – Stroking a dog or cat engages touch and sound while offering companionship. Find out more in our earlier blog.

5. Painting or colouring – Choosing colours and creating art encourages self-expression and helps lifts mood.

6. Gardening with aromatic herbs – Mint, rosemary and basil stimulate smell, sight and touch, even in small indoor pots.

7. Nature walks – Time outside offers an all-round sensory boost, from the sound of birds to the feel of the breeze.

8. Listening to music or nature sounds – Whether it’s favourite songs, the music of the great outdoors, or the pealing of bells, sound has a powerful effect on mood.

9. Taste-testing – Anything from tea, to honey, to chocolate, tasting sessions combine taste and smell and can help spark conversation.

10. Hand massage – Gentle massage with lotion or oils stimulates both touch and scent, helping reduce stress and promote calm. 

Other simple options include puzzles, sorting items like shells or buttons, or looking through old photographs. These don’t just engage the senses – they also affirm identity, celebrate achievements and invite participation without pressure. When activities are tailored to a person’s background, culture and preferences, they not only stimulate the senses but also affirm identity and foster connection. 

Frequently asked questions

What are good activities for elderly people?

Arts and crafts, gardening, music, cooking, playing with pets, interacting with others and similar sensory activities. Activities that are connected to past interests or daily routines add greater meaning. 

What is a sensory activity for a person in the late stage of dementia?

Quiet, simple and familiar activities – humming along to a favourite song, turning the pages of a well-worn book, playing with a collection of cool pebbles or stroking a soft, textured cushion – can bring comfort and reassurance when words are harder to find. You can read more about activities for people living with dementia in our earlier article.

Sensory activities for older people are vital for maintaining health, happiness and connection. At BaptistCare, we see every day how a song, a smell, a photograph, a taste, or a gentle touch can bring joy and comfort to residents, especially those living with dementia.

Discover how sensory activities are part of everyday life at BaptistCare – find an aged care home near you or click here to learn more about who we are.

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