Caring for Someone Living with Dementia During the Holidays

Practical Tips and Thoughtful Ideas for Caregivers.

The holiday season can be a wonderful time to connect with family and celebrate traditions, but for those caring for someone living with dementia, it can also present unique challenges. Changes to routines, busy environments, and sensory overload can be overwhelming for both the caregiver and the person living with dementia. With thoughtful planning and a few adjustments, the holidays can still be meaningful and enjoyable for everyone.

Tips for Navigating the Holidays

When Caring for Someone Living with Dementia

Simplify the Celebrations: The holidays don’t need to be elaborate to be special. Simplify decorations, meals, and events to reduce stress for both you and the person you care for. Focus on what truly matters—spending quality time together.	• Use familiar decorations, avoiding blinking lights or anything that could be confusing or disorienting. • Plan smaller, quieter gatherings instead of large, loud parties.
Maintain a Routine: People living with dementia often find comfort in routine. While the holidays can disrupt daily schedules, try to keep meals, bedtime, and other routines consistent.	• Plan celebrations for times of the day when the person is typically more alert or relaxed. • Avoid overstimulation by providing breaks or quiet time as needed.
Involve Them in the Festivities: Engaging the person you care for in simple, meaningful activities can help them feel included.	• Have them assist with decorating by hanging ornaments or setting the table. • Play familiar holiday music, as it can evoke positive memories and emotions. • Encourage them to help bake or decorate cookies, using easy tasks like sprinkling sugar.
Communicate with Family and Friends: Set clear expectations with family and friends about how the person you care for is doing and what to expect during visits.	• Share tips with visitors, such as speaking slowly, making eye contact, and avoiding corrections if the person becomes confused. • Let others know the importance of a calm and supportive environment.

Additional Holiday Considerations for Seniors Facility Living

If the person you care for is living in a long-term care or supportive living facility, the holidays may look a little different. Here are ways to make the season special while respecting their living situation:

1. Coordinate with Facility Staff

   Check with staff about holiday activities or events the facility is hosting, and see how you can participate. Ask about any considerations for decorations or visitors to ensure a smooth celebration.
   

2. Bring the Holidays to Them Decorate their room with small, familiar items like a tabletop tree, wreath, or favourite holiday decorations. Share festive treats or meals that fit within any dietary restrictions.
   

3. Plan Visits Thoughtfully

   Choose times when the person is most alert and rested, such as earlier in the day. Keep visits short and focused to prevent overstimulation or fatigue.
   

4. Involve Them in Facility Events

   Encourage participation in holiday activities offered by the facility, such as carolling, crafts, or group meals. Join them if possible to share the experience and create a sense of togetherness.
   

5. Acknowledge Limitations

   Understand that changes in environment or schedule might be confusing, and be patient if they don’t respond as expected. Focus on creating calm and connection rather than adhering to traditional expectations.

Gift Ideas for Someone Living with Dementia

Finding thoughtful and practical gifts for someone living with dementia can enhance their comfort, engagement, and quality of life. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Comfort and Sensory Gifts:

  A cozy blanket or lap quilt with textures they can explore.

  A weighted blanket for calming effects.

  A fidget cushion or sensory pillow with buttons, zippers, and textures.
  

• Memory and Engagement Gifts

  Photo albums or picture books with large images of familiar places or family members.

  A personalized playlist of their favourite songs from earlier years.

  Puzzles with larger pieces or activity books designed for people living with dementia.
  

• Practical and Soothing Items

  A calendar or clock with clear, large numbers and simple displays.

  Comfortable clothing that’s easy to put on and take off.

  Aromatherapy diffusers with calming scents like lavender or vanilla. TIP: Check out the Caregiver Boutique on the resources page of my website for helpful gift ideas!
  

• Activities to Share

  Simple craft kits that allow you to create something together.

  DVDs or streaming services featuring classic movies or shows they might recognize.

  Gardening tools for small indoor plants or herb gardens.

Whether at home or in a facility, thoughtful planning can help you navigate the season while fostering moments of joy and connection. And remember, it’s okay to adjust traditions and set boundaries to protect your own energy.

Reach out if you would like to know more about how you can make the holidays as stress free as possible. 

Wishing you peace, strength, and small joys this holiday season.