How do I redirect someone who has absolutely no interest in recreational activities?

Does she like old movies? They can sometimes be a real help in these situations. Try some DVDs of movies from her era. Even CDs with big band music may help.

Don't feel bad about being annoyed with repeated questions. It is truly hard to deal with. We understand. Try to detach from it - even ignore it and go on with what you were doing. You can say, "Can you help me with this?" and let the question go. Every person is different, so it's hard to suggest one thing and say it will work.
Good luck. I hope more people will chime in with their ideas.
Carol

Can you give us more information? Was she always this way? Does she have friends or go to church? I'm wondering if her brain has been affected and she just can't concentrate or remember anything.

My mom has no short-term memory and when I'm at her place, she asks me the same thing every 2 minutes. I finally started having her write the answers to the questions she keeps asking me. Then when she asks again, I tell her to look at the page she just wrote. And I go over the answers with her when I talk to her later on. It's not a great answer, but it helps me a little bit with my mom.

Play a game of Pop-o-Matic (the one with a dice in a bubble) and/or Scrabble (make sure you've a dictionary to prevent heated arguments). If she still asks the same questions while playing, get a couple of 500- or 1,000-piece puzzles. Pretend as if you're having trouble completing them, and ask for her to help. That should keep her busy for a few hours. ... My grandmother embroidered handkerchiefs using very simple patterns. They sold like hot cakes at Xmas time. Not sure if she'd like to do this, but it's another suggestion. Two more suggestions: (1) Search the web for "recreational activities for bored elderly;" (2) contact the nearest senior citizens center and schedule an appointment with a their specialist/director for Recreational Activities.

Are her bad days recent? Maybe she had a stroke. Talk with her primary physician to see if they can help you with any cognitive therapy.

When my mom ask the same question over and over I give her a tablet and have her write the question and answer on paper. Then I say read your tablet.

It sounds like this caregiver needs a break. Don't forget to ask your friends or family to help.

B. Woods

Well,she really doesn't watch tv.I do put the classic movies on and she justs zones out. I will talk about the movie and she still loses interest.I really am serious when I say,she has no interests at all. Ugh! Music does help for a little while. I have taken to moving from room to room when she is after me with the same questions.At least she gets some exercise that way. LOL. Thank you.It is so nice to have this web site to turn to. sincerely,deedeedunn

Thank you everyone! Your suggestions sound good. I actually just thought of the writing down the questions and answers,yesterday. That is a relief. I have tried puzzles,beading,reading to her,making photo albums,drawing pictures for her to guess what they are.etc.But,she has no interest in interacting. She says she just wants to sit quietly. LOL. That would be great if she would stay quiet and not get herself all worked up asking questions. I do get relieved by others helping out.I am with her all day. She doesn't have any friends.Her altzheimers prevents her from keeping touch.And she really lost touch about 11 yrs ago after her husband died anyway. Well,I really do appreciate the advice. My best to you! deedeedunn