How to Celebrate the Holidays With a Loved One Has Dementia

Caring for seniors with dementia can be challenging, especially during the busy holiday season. Holiday plans will look different when including a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, but they can be just as joyful, memorable and rewarding. Here are some helpful tips on how to have a successful holiday gathering with a loved one at every stage of their diagnosis. 

Be Thoughtful When Considering Additional Visitors

Large groups and lots of activity can be disorienting or frightening for those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. For this reason, it’s often best to limit the number of guests visiting your loved one on a holiday. As an alternative, consider spreading visits from family and friends across several days. This will allow your loved ones to visit while minimizing the risk of confusion and distress.

Create a Soothing Retreat

Along with managing visitors, you will want to ensure that your loved one’s space is comfortable and calming. Relaxing music, simple decorations and familiar locations can all help to ease the stress on your loved one. You will also want to attempt to maintain routines as much as possible. Try to plan parties and other stimulating activities at a time of day that doesn’t interrupt their usual schedule.   

Plan Appropriate Activities

When planning your holiday activities, it’s important to include your loved one with dementia whenever you can. You will want to avoid potentially hazardous situations, such as decorations that may be mistaken for candy or treats, fire hazards like candles and breakable ornaments.

One way to include your loved one is to enlist the help of your guests. Activities like photo album viewing, familiar music and family traditions can all be great ways to engage with your loved one with dementia.

Find Moments to Enjoy

Caring for seniors with dementia can be emotionally draining, but there are also plenty of opportunities to appreciate and celebrate with your loved one. Whether it’s a genuine smile brought on by a happy memory, a simple conversation or simply a “good day,” take time to savor the little victories each day.  

Compassionate Memory Care at Edgemere

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia can be a challenge, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Edgemere, we have a skilled, compassionate and comprehensive memory care community that can help your loved one live well and safely. With round-the-clock support and supervision by highly-trained professionals, you can rest easier knowing that your loved one is in a safe, structured environment. Contact us to learn more about memory care at Edgemere in Dallas today.