Dementia at Christmas: A Guide for Caregivers & Loved Ones

The festive season can be full of joy, love, and laughter for people with dementia – yet it’s important to recognise the emotional challenges someone with dementia can face at this time of year. 

Changes to their routine, seeing more people, and sensory overload can feel overwhelming. 

In this guide, we’re sharing some tips for coping with dementia during the Christmas period if you’re:

• Caring for a loved one with dementia
• Working in a care home
• Visiting a loved one in a care home. 

Coping with dementia at a family Christmas

When it comes to making the festive period comfortable for someone with dementia, it’s all about creating a safe and familiar space.

Keep it simple and traditional

Avoid bright or flashing lights, anything that moves, and OTT displays, as this can be a recipe for overstimulation and confusion. Instead, opt for simple, traditional decorations that evoke nostalgic memories of past Christmases. 

Try not to disrupt familiar surroundings by moving furniture around or obscuring their normal view, and keep lighting cosy and warm. 

Consider scents and sounds

How your space sounds and smells is just as important as how it looks. Nostalgic aromas like cinnamon and pine can be lovely, as long as they’re not overpowering.

Gentle Christmas music and hymns can evoke positive memories for people affected by dementia – just make sure you avoid modern versions that could feel jarring.

Plan festive activities

Keep your loved one involved by organising simple festive activities, like baking gingerbread men or decorating the tree – this will build their sense of purpose and inclusion. 

Adjust expectations

Christmas might feel a little different if it’s your first year adjusting to these changes, but it can still be really special. 

Adjust your expectations, be flexible, and keep gatherings small. Keep a close eye on your loved one for signs they’re flagging, and make sure they have a comfy space to retreat to if it gets a bit much.

Dementia at Christmas in a care home

If you work in a care setting with people living with dementia, Christmas can be a joyful experience with some thoughtful planning. Here are some tips for supporting your residents to have a wonderful time.  

Plan sensory activities

Many of the care home activities your residents enjoy year-round can be adapted with a festive twist. Think: carol singing, making decorations or Christmas cards, or festive baking to enjoy familiar tastes. 

Host small events

When planning yuletide gatherings or even Christmas Day and Christmas dinner plans, keep it intimate to avoid overstimulation – small tea parties and gentle story times will feel safe and be great fun.

Keep it nostalgic

Nostalgia can spark beloved memories in people with dementia. So, organise movie nights with classic Christmas films, or sing well-known carols and hymns together.

Create calm spaces

Even low-key gatherings could feel overwhelming, so always have a safe, calm, and quiet space where your residents can retreat for a break.

Engage families in your festivities

Involving your residents’ friends and family members to join in festive activities can make things extra special for residents.

Advice for visiting your loved one in a care home at Christmas

Work with care staff

Talk to staff ahead of time about any visiting hours over the Christmas period, as well as finding out what their activity schedule looks like. This way, you can visit at the best time for their energy levels and maybe even join in some of the festive fun. 

Personalise their space

Making your loved one’s space feel homely and safe will add to feelings of wellbeing and security. Ask care home employees if you can bring familiar items in like photos and decorations, and mention favourite family traditions they may be able to incorporate into their celebrations.

Make visits meaningful

Short and meaningful visits allow your loved one time to prepare and rest. Focus more on quality time than quantity. 

Bonding activities like playing simple games, listening to their favourite carols, looking through old family photos, or reading together will give you all that mood-enhancing serotonin boost! 

Have a joyous Christmas, from your friends at A Good Day

The most important part of Christmas is the chance to connect with the people you love and spread a little cheer. 

And while the festivities may look different this year if you’re adjusting to life with dementia, there are still many, many moments of joy to be found. Just remember to look after yourself as well – you’re doing an amazing job. 💛

P.S. If you’re looking for dementia-friendly games and activities all the family can enjoy this Christmas, try Matching Memories, the perfect conversation starter! Add it to your games cupboard or gift it to a loved one – it’s available to buy on our website, Amazon, and Alzheimer’s Society.