Making the Holidays Special When Your Loved One Has Dementia

The holidays are a time for connection, but they can also bring unique challenges when a family member is living with dementia. With thoughtful planning and a little creativity, you can foster joy and understanding for all involved. Here are some helpful tips to make the season more enjoyable and stress-free:

1. Get Organized Early: Share plans with family members ahead of time and set clear expectations. Establish a simple schedule to provide structure and remind guests that your loved one might not recognize everyone or follow the same conversations.
2. Celebrate Familiarity: Familiar surroundings, traditions, and favorite dishes bring comfort. If possible, host the gathering in a familiar space and keep to routines your loved one enjoys.
3. Simplify Decorations: Choose calm and uncluttered holiday decor to prevent distractions or confusion.
4. Smaller Gatherings: Keep the guest list manageable to minimize noise and activity, focusing on close family and familiar faces.
5. Quiet Spaces Matter: Designate a soothing area where your loved one can retreat if they feel overstimulated.
6. Meaningful Involvement: Encourage your loved one to join simple tasks, like folding napkins or stirring a dish. These activities can foster inclusion without overwhelming them.
7. Communicate Thoughtfully: Use clear and simple language to ensure your loved one feels connected to conversations.
8. Patience is Key: Repetition or moments of confusion are common. Respond calmly and offer reassurance to help reduce any stress.
9. Stimulate Their Senses: Play familiar music, incorporate nostalgic scents, or look through old photos to evoke positive memories.
10. Monitor Energy: Watch for signs of fatigue and adjust the day’s activities to match your loved one’s comfort level.
11. Minimize Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption, as it can sometimes heighten confusion or alter the atmosphere.
12. Be Ready for Surprises: Keep a few quiet activities, like puzzles or books, on hand to help redirect attention if needed.
13. Collaborate with Caregivers: If possible, invite someone to assist with managing your loved one’s needs so you can focus on family time.
14. Adapt Traditions: Create new ways to celebrate that are simpler and more accommodating, such as shorter visits or quiet activities.
15. Take Care of Yourself: Supporting a loved one with dementia can be demanding, so remember to rest, hydrate, and lean on others when needed.

By balancing cherished traditions with thoughtful adaptations, you can create a warm and meaningful holiday season for your entire family. From all of us at Kemper House, we wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy 2025!

– Cheryl Freed, LSW, CDP, CADDCT

This article was inspired by insights from “Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday with a Family Member Diagnosed with Dementia” from the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners website.