Hello jbcharlie3
I notice you are not being inundated with suggestions. It is probably because regardless of age, many of us have tried and failed to find activities to stimulate and occupy those we care for.
Apart from listening to music, the only way I can stop my husband withdrawing into himself is to be there on a one to one level. As soon as he is left to himself, he switches off.
So if he is reading the paper, I need to be there so he can read points of interest out to me, so we can discuss headlines.
If he is watching the television I need to be there to remind him the programme has not finished, but the commercials are on.
If he is watching his favourite sport, I need to tell him which side is which, and who is who.
If he is listening to music I need to be there to tell him who is singing, where they come from, whether or not they are married, if they have children and whether they are alive or dead.
I have tried simple board games, snakes and ladders, draughts, but he doesn`t see the point and loses interest.
I have shown him old photos but he doesn`t recognize the people.
I have tried sorting games but his organizational skills have gone.
He will help with food preparation. He will wash dishes. He will set the table.
So I`m afraid it`s trial and error. I would say any activity is appropriate if it holds the interest of those we care for for any length of time.