Social Engagement & Communication

Dolls often spark:

• Conversations (“Isn’t she sweet?”)

• Smiles, laughter, and eye contact

• Interactions with staff and family

• They can serve as an emotional bridge when verbal communication is limited.

Reduced Behavioral Challenges

Caregiving experience show doll therapy can help decrease:

• Sundowning behaviors
• Verbal or physical agitation
• Outbursts or resistance to care
• A doll gives the person something positive to focus on, diverting attention away from distress.

Emotional Comfort & Reduced Anxiety

Holding a soft, warm-feeling doll can:

• Lower anxiety and agitation

• Reduce restlessness, fidgeting, and pacing

• Provide a sense of calm and security

• Many individuals instinctively cradle or stroke the doll, which can trigger soothing responses.

 

Sense of Purpose and Responsibility

Even in later stages of dementia, people often retain nurturing instincts. Caring for a doll may:

• Restore a sense of usefulness or purpose
• Encourage engagement (“I need to take care of the baby”)
• Boost self-esteem by giving meaningful “work” to do

Comfort for Trauma or Loneliness

A doll can help:

• Relieve feelings of loneliness
• Ease sadness or confusion
• Provide comfort when someone has a history of loss or separation

It can feel like a stable companion in a world that often feels unpredictable.