The Memory Unit OT

I am a HUGE lover of sensory intervention in older adults, because I have seen first hand how effective sensory strategies can be, especially for individuals living with dementia. These sensory bags are an easy and cost-effective intervention strategy that you’ll keep coming back to again and again.

What You’ll Need:

1. Ziploc Bags – I like to use quart sized, but any size will do
2. Something Sticky and/or Squishy – my favorites are hair gel, shampoo, and water beads, but you could also use sand (regular or kinetic), playdough, or even just plain old water with some food dye
3. Something Eye Catching – think bright and colorful but also small and low profile, like glitter and confetti
4. Duct Tape – to seal up the bag and prevent leaks

How to Assemble:

1. Fill your bag with your selected ‘something squishy’.
2. Add the eye-catchers.
3. Seal the top of the bag using the manufactured seal.
4. Fold a piece of duct tape over each edge of the bag to prevent the bag from opening or leaking.

Now, depending on the cognitive level of the individual you are working with, you could make this yourself and simply introduce the completed sensory bag to them OR you could use a session to make the sensory bag with your patient.

Things to Consider if You’re Going to Make the Bag with your Patient/Resident:

1. Are they averse to having sticky/wet substances on their hands?
2. Will they attempt to eat the ingredients?
3. Can they sustain attention long enough to complete the task?
4. What are my goals and why do I want them to engage in this constructive activity?