Activities for someone with depression

Never alone with a German shep !

I agree too. Old photographs could be pretty depressing.

My mum had all her family photos and I tried a few times to get her to put them in albums. We managed a few but she was never happy doing it and there were loads left. I've started doing it but it can be upsetting.
Is there an exercise class near she could go to, perhaps seated ? It does help with depression. Or would she join a choir?
Creative arts are good. There are lots of resources and places on here baringfoundation.org.uk/blog-post/covid-19-arts-and-creative-resources-for-older-people-and-anyone-else-in-isolation/

I agree with GSM. I wouldn't show her old photos.

Maybe up to date ones of the family doing different things might be nice though

Thank you all so much for these lovely suggestions. I will try them out and see which works best for Mum. You are all so kind thank you for taking the time to help. XX

I agree with you Germanshepherdsmum

My mum used to be OK taking out on a drive. Nothing was "expected" of her in that situation but the change of scene helped just a wee bit.
Sometimes feeling she "ought to have" to do something was the wrong thing, but everyone is different.

The other thing that occurred ion my memory was just sitting with - I'd do something with my hands. Perhaps the simple gift that you are "there" helps more than one might think.

Just thinking that a budgie might cheer her up. They are sociable, funny and very cheerful little creatures. You can't be miserable when there's one around because they are very chatty and demand your attention. They can be so funny. Obviously they need seed and something green every day (lettuce, dandelion leaf) and maybe their sand sheet wiped over (not replaced). Grit and millet. But really very cheap to keep and such fun. A budgie would form a friendship with her and raise her spirits.

And don't forget the bath. They absolutely love bathing and it's so funny to watch them.

She's likely to tire very quickly and worry about anything new - to start with I'd see if you can find some fairly easy (150/200 piece) jigsaws and just work on one for a short while at a time. If that goes well, then expand to going somewhere with nice sights - depends where you live, but I'm thinking parks, sea view, countryside or nice town - tea and a treat - how's her appetite? Would she go along with (initiative is too much to expect just now) planting something for later in the year - it's good to 'start' something.

Would she enjoy baking a cake together, arranging some flowers, a manicure?

Bright colours are stimulating. Can you casually leave her with some colouring pencils and a picture just barely begun?

Singing is very good for mental and physical health. Have a look at Goldies who have lots of singing venues.