Review: Is the Designries Nostalgic Coloring Book Actually "Dementia Friendly"?
- insponential
- Dec 4, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 29, 2025
Finding a coloring book for a senior with dementia or Alzheimer's is harder than it looks. Most options on Amazon fall into two bad categories: "Adult Coloring Books" that are far too intricate for trembling hands, or "Easy" books that are filled with cartoons clearly meant for toddlers.
The Coloring Book For Seniors: Nostalgic & Simple Designs by Designries claims to bridge this gap. But does it actually respect the user's dignity, or is it just another kids' book with a new cover?
I analyzed the line weight, the specific 1950s themes, and the unique "conversation prompts" inside to see if it works as a legitimate tool for reminiscence therapy.
Check the latest price and availability here: 👉 Check Price on Amazon Quick Verdict: Is it Worth It?
Yes. The Designries Nostalgic Coloring Book is currently one of the best options for seniors with mild-to-moderate dementia.
Why: It avoids "childish" cartoons in favor of dignified 1950s themes (classic cars, jukeboxes).
Accessibility: The lines are extra-thick, making it easy for shaky hands or low vision.
Warning: The paper is standard weight, so use a backing sheet if coloring with alcohol markers.
In This Review:
Quick Specs: The "Investigator" Breakdown
Here is the technical data most descriptions leave out.
Feature | Specification |
Total Images | 50+ Illustrations |
Paper Format | Single-Sided (Blank back pages to prevent bleed) |
Line Weight | Thick, Bold Outlines (High Contrast) |
Themes | 1950s–1970s Nostalgia (Jukeboxes, Classic Cars, Sewing) |
Difficulty Level | Easy / Accessible (No tiny intricate patterns) |
Best For | Mild to Moderate Dementia, Low Vision, Stroke Recovery |
The Deep Dive: Why This Book is Different
After reviewing the interior pages, three specific features stand out that make this superior to a standard "Mandala" book for seniors.
1. The "Dignity" Factor (No Cartoons)
The #1 complaint from caregivers is that simple coloring books often feel infantilizing.
The Difference: This book uses adult imagery. You aren't coloring a cartoon bunny; you are coloring a "Sharp Dressed Man" (fedora hat), a Classic 1950s Truck, or a Vintage Sewing Machine.
Why it matters: It respects the senior's history. It feels like engaging with a memory, not playing a child's game.
2. It is a "Reminiscence Therapy" Tool
This is the hidden strength of this specific book. Every page includes a Direct Conversation Prompt, not just a title.
Page 51: Instead of just "Car keys," it asks: "Who is DRIVING TODAY?"
Page 13: Above the retro TV set, it asks: "What is YOUR FAVOURITE SHOW?"
Page 63: Above the Jukebox, it prompts: "Put a Dime IN THE JUKEBOX."
Expert Note: These prompts allow caregivers to pause the coloring and start a conversation. This technique, known as Reminiscence Therapy, helps seniors connect with long-term memories even when short-term memory is fading.
3. Visual Accessibility (The "Bold Line" Test)
Seniors with low vision or motor control issues (like tremors) struggle with thin lines.
The Verdict: The illustrations in this book use extra-thick black outlines.
The Benefit: The heavy lines act as a "bumper" for the marker or crayon, making it much easier to stay inside the lines. This reduces frustration and gives the user a sense of accomplishment rather than defeat.
Real User Cons: What You Need to Know
No product is perfect. Here are the limitations you should be aware of.
❌ The "Marker" Warning
While the pages are single-sided (which is excellent), standard Amazon paper can still allow alcohol markers (like Sharpies) to bleed through to the next page.
The Fix: If your loved one uses heavy markers, simply place a piece of cardstock or a scrap sheet of paper behind the page they are coloring.
❌ Simplicity Level
This is designed for accessibility. If the senior is in the very early stages of dementia and used to be an artist, they might find the designs too simple. This book is optimized for those who find standard "Adult Coloring Books" overwhelming or stressful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are the most common questions caregivers ask about dementia-friendly activities.
1. Is coloring actually good for dementia patients?
Yes. Studies suggest that coloring engages both hemispheres of the brain logic (choosing colors) and creativity (mixing them). It acts as a meditative activity that can significantly lower anxiety and agitation, which are common symptoms in dementia and Alzheimer's.
2. Is this book suitable for men?
Absolutely. Many coloring books focus heavily on flowers and butterflies. This book includes gender-neutral and masculine themes like Classic Cars, Fishing Gear, Woodworking Tools, and Old Radios, making it an excellent choice for fathers and grandfathers.
3. What should I use to color in this book? For seniors with grip issues (arthritis), thick triangular crayons or wide-barrel markers are often easier to hold than thin colored pencils. The bold lines in this book work perfectly with thicker markers.
4. Why are the back pages blank?
This is a deliberate design choice. It allows the user to use markers without ruining the picture on the back. It also means you can tear the page out and frame it on the fridge or wall to celebrate the accomplishment!
Final Verdict: Is this Dementia Friendly Coloring Book worth to Buy?
The Designries Nostalgic Coloring Book is more than just a pastime; it is a communication tool.
If you are looking for a way to bond with a senior loved one, sit down with them, open to the "Afternoon Tea" page, and ask them how they used to take their tea. The coloring is just the bridge to the memory.
Buy this if:
You want a "Dementia Friendly" gift that isn't childish.
You need an activity that sparks conversation (Reminiscence).
The user has low vision or shaky hands.
Check out this Dementia Friendly Coloring Book on Amazon:
👉 Shop the Designries Coloring Book Here
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