I. Product design

What makes a product dementia-friendly?

Great question! It’s at the heart of everything we do. For us, a dementia-friendly and adult-appropriate design means:

  • Dignity first: Our products are designed for adults. While intergenerational engagement is encouraged, you won't find childish themes here. We create beautiful, visually appealing items that anyone would be proud to have in their home
  • Intuitive use: We use clear visual cues, sans-serif text, high-contrast colors, and familiar concepts to make tools and activities easy to understand and enjoy
  • Caregiver-centric: We include invitation signage and supportive caregiver guides with most products to help foster successful and stress-free interactions
  • Strengths-Based: We create products that utilize remaining abilities – cognitive, physical, and social – to promote engagement, independence, and connection

How are products developed at Aegeliss?

Every Aegeliss product is born from a real need and developed through a deeply collaborative process. We work hand-in-hand with dementia experts at every stage of the product development process.  

  • The Center for Applied Research in Dementia (CARD) is an industry leader in the development of non-pharmacological interventions for persons with dementia, and the application of the Montessori method to memory care. We utilize CARD’s expertise and Montessori framework to ensure our products are adaptable, purposeful, practical, and strengths-based.  
  • Speech-language pathologists play a vital role in supporting communication and quality of life for persons living with dementia. Aegeliss works with speech-language pathologists to ensure our products support conversations, choice, and meaningful connections.
  • Caregivers are at the heart of every Aegeliss product and successful care experience. Aegeliss uses real-world feedback from family and professional caregivers to create products that make it easier to engage, communicate, and create moments of joy with those they support.
  • Persons living with dementia. The real experts on dementia-friendly products are individuals living with dementia, and we utilize their experiences and feedback to create the best products possible. Every product at Aegeliss has been tested by persons living with dementia in home and senior living environments.  

Each item undergoes an extensive review of both text and iconography, as well as real-world testing at home and in communities, to ensure it’s not only beautiful but also accessible, beneficial, and engaging.

What are your product design principles?

Our product design philosophy is centered on the vital connection between caregivers and their loved ones. This relationship is supported by our Five-Pillar Framework, which ensures every product we create reflects one or more of the benefit pillars:

  • Promote independence: Fostering autonomy and self-worth through intuitive, accessible design
  • Stay engaged: Offering purposeful, adult-appropriate activities that stimulate the mind and honor a person's life story
  • Spark joy: Creating moments of happiness and success with beautiful, uplifting activities
  • Bring comfort: Using familiar concepts and premium, tactile materials to create a sense of calm and security
  • Cherish together: Acting as a bridge for shared experiences, storytelling, and connection

By empowering caregivers with these supportive tools, we help make these moments of connection and independence possible. 

Do you own copyrights and patents to your products?

Yes, and we take great pride in our original research and design. Every Aegeliss product is the result of our personal experiences, extensive research, and partnerships with eldercare specialists. We handle all design in-house, driven by our dedication to perfecting every elder-friendly detail—from the tactile quality of a puzzle piece to the legibility of a font. This meticulous approach guarantees that every item is not only unique and effective but also truly deserving of the loved ones you care for. Our designs are fully protected by copyrights, design patents, and utility patents.

May I suggest or share a product idea with your team?

Absolutely! We are always learning from our community and would be honored to hear your idea. The best insights always come from the direct experience of caregivers like you.

Please share your thoughts with us via the "Share an Idea" drop-down option on Contact us page. We’ll be in touch if your idea gets selected for further discussion. While we cannot guarantee a personal reply to every submission, we will personally review each idea and prioritize based on a combination of inclusivity, ease of design, and potential impact.

II. Using Aegeliss products

Why does meaningful engagement matter in caregiving?

Meaningful engagement is the best medicine in dementia. Meaningful engagement is about so  more than just "keeping busy." It’s a vital part of person-centered care that nurtures an individual's sense of identity, purpose, and self-worth. These shared moments of connection can reduce anxiety, alleviate boredom, and provide a vital outlet for self-expression, dramatically improving the quality of life for both the person you're caring for and you, the caregiver.

How do I select products for my loved ones?

The best starting point is always the person's unique passions, strengths, and the need for support. Think about their past career, hobbies, or interests. Did they love gardening, engineering, or hosting parties? Our products are designed to tap into these lifelong skills and memories. We also recommend reading the "Product Details" section on each product page, which provides details on the specific skills it supports to help you find the perfect fit.

How can I prepare a dementia-friendly space for my loved one?

Creating a supportive environment is key! The goal is to maximize safety, comfort, and clarity.

  • Maximize Lighting: Ensure all areas are well-lit, especially pathways and activity spaces, to reduce shadows and disorientation
  • Minimize Clutter: A calm, organized space reduces confusion and potential overstimulation
  • Use High Contrast: Simple changes, like a dark placemat on a light table or a light switchplate on a darker wall, can make important items much easier to see
  • Use Clear Labels: Simple, clear labels (with both words and pictures) on drawers and cupboards can be very helpful for supporting independence. We highly recommend working with your loved one to find the right amount of cueing without over-labeling your space

How can I introduce a product or activity to my loved one with confidence?

Success often comes from a gentle, person-centered invitation rather than an instruction or over-support.

  • Choose the Right Time: Aim for a time of day when your loved one is typically most rested and alert
  • Invite, Don't Instruct: Have the activity ready and attractively laid out. Instead of saying, "Let's do this puzzle," try a friendlier approach like, "I saw this beautiful picture and it made me think of you. Would you like to look at it with me?" This creates a welcoming, low-pressure starting point
  • Focus on Connection: Sit and do the activity together. It’s about the in-the-moment interaction, not about following rules or "finishing." Our caregiver guides offer more specific tips for each product

What if my loved one does not seem to enjoy the activity?

That is perfectly okay, and it's a normal part of the process. The most important thing is to never force it. Engagement should never feel like a test or a chore.

If they show disinterest or frustration, simply thank them for their time, gently put the activity away, and try again on another day. Their preferences, mood, and energy level can change from day to day, or even hour to hour. The goal is always connection, and sometimes that connection is simply honoring their choice to rest.

What if the memory support tools do not seem to be helpful?

Every person's journey is unique, and not every tool will be the right fit for every stage. First, check the placement—is the tool in their direct line of sight in a well-lit area? Can they see the visuals clearly? Second, invite them into the application process. Everyone wants their voice heard, especially when the products are designed for them.  

If it still doesn't seem to be the right solution, it's okay. We highly recommend consulting with an eldercare specialist, such as an occupational therapist or speech-language pathologist, who can offer personalized strategies.

Is learning still possible among individuals living with dementia?

Absolutely. While dementia can affect the brain's ability to form new short-term memories, the capacity for learning, connection, and joy remains. Learning might just look different. It might be about procedural memory (learning a new routine through space retrieval) or re-engaging with a long-lost, deeply ingrained skill. The brain is incredibly resilient.

III. Shipping and returns

What is your shipping policy?

We ship to all 50 US States. Orders are processed Monday through Friday by our fulfillment partners. When your order is shipped, the tracking information will be shared with you so you can track its progress. On occasion, items may be shipped in more than one package, but you’ll never be charged more than the shipping cost at checkout.

How much is shipping?

For eligible orders over $85, we offer free economic shipping in the continental US. For orders under $85 in the continental US, standard shipping is $7.95, and expedited shipping is $13.95. We subsidize a portion of all shipping costs as a token of our appreciation.

For other US territories, the economic shipping is $15.95. The expedited shipping is $27.95.

Can I cancel my order?

If you need to cancel, please email us immediately at support@aegeliss.com with your order number and "Cancellation Request" in the subject line. We will do our best to stop the order before it ships.

If it has already been processed by our fulfillment team, you may need to initiate a return once you receive the item.

Can you ship outside the US?

Thanks for the outpouring of support from around the world! We are constantly working on improving our supply chain to make bringing Aegeliss to your home a reality. For now, we only ship within the 50 US States. Please sign up for our newsletter to be the first to know when we expand to your country!

Do you offer any discount codes?

Yes! We offer 10% off your first order for all new customers. Occasionally, we have seasonal promotions and offer exclusive discounts to our email community. The best way to stay informed is to sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of our website!

IV. Return and exchange

Do you accept returns?

Yes. To be eligible for a return, your product must be unused and in its original packaging. You may return the item within 30 days of delivery. You are responsible for the cost of return shipping. The restocking fee is $6.95.

To request a return, please email our team at support @aegeliss.com with your order number to begin the process.

Once our warehouse team completes inspection (which may take up to 10 business days from delivery), a refund will be processed automatically.

If I change my mind, is return my only option?

Absolutely not! We love our planet and would like to reduce carbon emissions whenever possible. We encourage you to consider donating your new item to a local organization dedicated to eldercare and dementia care. The item may benefit another family in need.

Please ask for a copy of the donation receipt and send a photo of it to us at hello@aegeliss.com. As a thank you, we’ll issue you a 15% off coupon for your future use. It's a win-win!

How do you handle damaged or incorrect items shipped?

We will send a free replacement at no shipping cost to you. Please feel free to keep the extra item or donate it to a local charity. Should you choose to donate it, send us a copy of the donation receipt, and we’ll be delighted to issue you a 15% off coupon for future use.

To report a damaged or incorrect item, please email support@aegeliss.com with your order number and photos of the package and its contents.

V. Communities and Organizations (Bulk Orders)

Do you offer bulk order discounts for communities and groups?

Yes, we are honored to support the incredible work of senior living communities and care organizations. We offer attractive discounts on bulk orders to help you drive meaningful engagement with more of your residents.

Because every community's needs are different, please reach out to us at partner@aegeliss.com. Our partnership team will be delighted to provide you with a personalized purchasing experience.

Can you donate a product to our organization?

Thank you for thinking of us and for the important work you do. Please use the “Contact Us” form on our website and select “Donation.” Please share your organization’s name, address and a short description of the eldercare work the organization focuses on. We accommodate donation requests on a case-by-case basis.

How do I place a tax-exempt order?

We are happy to assist with tax-exempt orders for qualifying organizations. To ensure your order is processed correctly, please do not place your order through the website checkout.

Instead, please email our team at partners@aegeliss.com with the following:

1. A copy of your valid tax-exempt certificate.

2. A list of the products and quantities you wish to purchase.

3. The best shipping and billing address for your organization.

Our team will manually create your order and send you a tax-free invoice for review and payment.

VI. Giving Aegeliss as a gift

How do I choose the right Aegeliss gift for my loved one?

This is a thoughtful question! The best gift is one that resonates with their personal story, supports their current strengths, and provides the right level of challenge. Start by thinking about their past hobbies and interests. An item that connects to a cherished memory, like one of our puzzles, is often a wonderful place to start. If you're unsure, our home & routine labels are a beautiful way to support their independence.

Can I purchase Aegeliss products as gifts?

Of course! An Aegeliss product makes a wonderful, supportive gift. A core part of our mission is dignity, which is why our premium packaging never mentions dementia, age, or memory loss. It's a beautiful, modern gift that supports cognitive wellness and connection.

Do you offer gift wrapping services?

While we don't offer a separate gift-wrapping service at this time, all of our products arrive in beautiful, thoughtfully designed packaging that feels special right out of the box. We are constantly improving our value-added services, so please sign up for our newsletter to be notified when we roll out new options!

Can I include a personalized gift message?

Yes, you can! During checkout, you will find an option to add a personalized gift message. We'll make sure to include it with your package. (And don't worry, we always omit prices from packing slips for gift orders.)

VII. About packaging and materials

What materials can be expected in your products?

We select premium, elder-friendly materials for all our products. This includes durable, sustainably sourced bamboo, non-toxic finishes, and high-quality, heavyweight paper and cardstock that are easy to handle. Every material is chosen for its safety, tactile feel, and durability, ensuring it can be enjoyed again and again. You can find specific material details on each product page.

Is dementia mentioned on your packaging?

No, it is not. This is a core part of our dignity-first product design principle. Our packaging is beautifully and discreetly designed to look like a premium gift anyone would be happy to receive. There is no mention of "dementia," "Alzheimer's," "memory loss," or "senior" on our outer shipping boxes or product packaging.

VIII. Other

Can I become an Aegeliss partner?

  •  For content creators: If you're an influencer who shares our dedication to improving the lives of elders and their caregivers, we invite you to join our community. Apply to become an affiliate here [Hyperlink to a Google Form]
  • For eldercare communities: Become a hub of innovative care

Are you a compassionate Activities and Engagement professional committed to providing best-in-class care? Join our network of esteemed community partners to unlock bulk order savings, collaborate on product development, and receive early access to our newest innovations. Apply to be a Community Partner here [Hyperlink to a Google Form]

I have other questions. How can I reach out?

We're here to help! Please use the "Contact Us" form on our website. We'll get back to you as soon as we can.