The holidays are a time of joy, family gatherings, and long-standing traditions, but when your loved one has dementia, the usual celebrations can feel a bit different. That doesn’t mean the holidays have to lose their magic. In fact, with a little flexibility and creativity, you can still create special, meaningful moments that both you and your loved one will treasure.
Here’s what I’ve learned through personal experience: making the holidays work with dementia requires a shift in expectations, but the love, laughter, and connection can be stronger than ever.
- Simplify Traditions
We all have holiday traditions we hold dear, but I’ve found that simplifying them can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone, especially for a loved one with dementia. Instead of big, elaborate dinners, consider a smaller gathering with close family. If decorating the whole house feels overwhelming, focus on a few key areas or activities your loved one enjoys.
- Create a Calm and Familiar Environment
Familiarity and calmness can go a long way in reducing anxiety for someone with dementia. I’ve learned to keep things predictable during the holidays, whether it’s playing their favorite holiday music, decorating with familiar items, or sticking to a consistent routine, these small steps can bring comfort.
Avoid overwhelming situations like large crowds, loud noises, or bright, flashing lights, as these can sometimes cause confusion or agitation. Instead, I opt for soft lighting, soothing music, and intimate gatherings that allow for more one-on-one interaction.
- Engage the Senses
Holiday magic doesn’t have to come from complex activities. Sometimes the most special moments come from engaging the senses. The smell of a favorite holiday dish, the sound of carols, or the feel of a soft blanket can evoke emotions and memories in powerful ways.
- Focus on the Present
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to focus on the present. Dementia can make it difficult for your loved one to recall past holidays or remember the details of a conversation, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t experiencing joy in the moment.
Rather than asking them to remember, I focus on creating happiness here and now. Whether it’s sharing a laugh over a holiday story or holding hands while watching a holiday movie, these small, present-focused moments are what truly matter.
- Include Them in Activities
It can be tempting to want to do everything for your loved one, but involving them in holiday activities, even in small ways can help them feel more connected. Simple tasks like hanging ornaments, helping stir a dish, or setting the table can make them feel part of the celebration.
- Manage Expectations
I’ve had to adjust my expectations around the holidays, and that’s okay. It’s easy to want everything to be perfect, but perfection isn’t the goal, connection is. There will be moments when things don’t go as planned. Your loved one may become tired, confused, or disengaged at times. That’s normal.
- Plan for Breaks
The holidays can be overstimulating, even for someone without dementia, so it’s important to plan breaks and quiet time. I make sure my loved one has moments to rest between activities. Whether it’s a nap, some quiet time watching a favorite show, or sitting peacefully by the fireplace, these breaks help keep the day from becoming too overwhelming.
- Embrace New Traditions
Finally, don’t be afraid to let go of old traditions that no longer work and embrace new ones. While some of our family traditions have evolved, we’ve discovered new activities that bring joy. Last year, we started a tradition of taking a short holiday drive to look at the lights around town. It’s peaceful, calm, and something my loved one looks forward to.
You don’t have to hold onto every tradition from the past. The holidays are about creating meaningful moments, and those moments can come in new and unexpected ways.
Making the holidays special for a loved one with dementia isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing what matters most. Focus on connection, create a calm environment, and treasure the small moments of joy. Remember, it’s not about perfection, but about presence.
This holiday season, embrace the changes that dementia brings while still holding onto the heart of what makes the holidays meaningful, love, laughter, and time spent together.
If you need support or senior companionship services to help make your holiday season easier, Divine Favour Healthcare Staffing Inc. is here to help. Contact us today at 647-766-5394 to learn more about our services in Toronto, the GTA, Niagara Falls, Niagara Region, Ottawa, Kitchener-Waterloo, Markham, and Richmond Hill, Ontario. Let us help you and your loved one create special holiday moments together!