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Older & Wiser

Holiday Tips for a Family Member with Dementia

Lise-Anne Deoul
Posted 12/17/21

Caregiving can be tough, but the holidays can offer great opportunities to enjoy time with your loved one with dementia. Preparation is the key to safe and peaceful celebrations. To make the most of …

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Older & Wiser

Holiday Tips for a Family Member with Dementia

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Caregiving can be tough, but the holidays can offer great opportunities to enjoy time with your loved one with dementia. Preparation is the key to safe and peaceful celebrations. To make the most of the season, here are a few tips.

  1. Tone down the decorations. Avoid blinking lights and large displays that cause clutter or confusion.
  2. Avoid safety hazards. Don’t leave candles burning and avoid decorations that could be mistaken for edible treats.
  3. Play favorite holiday music. Keep familiar music at an enjoyable, relaxing volume.

There are also a few adaptations you can make to ensure your loved one can enjoy the holidays with you.          

  1. Prepare together. Decorate cookies, open holiday cards, or make simple decorations. Focus on the task rather than the outcome.
  2. Host a small gathering. Aim to keep celebrations quiet and relaxed.
  3. Avoid disruptions. Plan a gathering at the best time of day for the person living with dementia. Keep daily routines in place as much as possible.
  4. Provide a quiet place. If you are having guests over, provide a quiet place for the person with dementia to have time alone or to visit with one person at a time.
  5. Plan meaningful activities. You might read a favorite holiday story, look at photo albums, watch a favorite holiday movie or sing songs.
  6. Keep outings brief. If you'll be attending a holiday gathering, plan to be brief or be prepared to leave early if necessary. Make sure there is a place to rest or take a break.

Remember that you don't have to do it all. Simplifying your celebrations can reduce everyone’s stress levels for a safe and happy holiday season.

Call Sullivan NYConnects,(845) 807-0257, to ensure you have all of the resources available.

Source: Mayo Clinic

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