We bought Lizzie a doll for Christmas. This is a doll created to be as lifelike as possible for people living with dementia.
The doll was expensive (about $200 including shipping and handling) but she's been worth every single penny.
Lizzie has always been vivacious and fun. She lives with a twinkle in her eye and a sarcastic comment waiting for just the right moment to appear.
Despite living with dementia and losing so much of herself to this horrid disease, we still see many moments of Lizzie.
The doll has brought even more of these.
Lizzie loves "the baby".
She holds her carefully, talks sweetly to her, tickles her chin, taps her nose, and kisses her forehead.
Lizzie also sings and talks with the baby.
Because of the pandemic, there are times Lizzie is alone at her nursing home. Now with the baby, she is never alone. She has a companion who is willing to take all the love Lizzie has to give.
Lizzie is so proud of her baby.
- She's growing so quickly!
- She said her first words the other day!
- She's learning to sing!
- She's such a sweet baby!
- She never cries!
- She loves this song!
At times, Lizzie mentions that the baby is a doll, but most of the time, she treats her as a baby. And she loves her.
If you've considered a doll for your Loved One, all I can say is the baby has been one of our best purchases ever!
There are also stuffed animals (some are robotic) that are created for the same purpose.
How about you? Anyone else find a doll to be a great purchase? Or a lifelike stuffed animal? Any other success stories from gifts?