Now that November has arrived, Canadians are preparing themselves for the always-joyous holiday season. For most people, this time of year is filled with warmth, happiness and cherished memories. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with family, share laughter and revisit beloved traditions that remind us of holidays past.
However, for older adults living with dementia, this time of year can also bring confusion, anxiety or distress. This is because their memory and sense of routine are challenged by the hustle and bustle of the festivities. For family caregivers, helping a loved one with dementia navigate the holiday season requires patience, understanding and thoughtful planning.
Keep traditions simple and familiar.
Familiarity provides comfort for individuals with dementia. Instead of changing long-standing traditions, try adapting them to your loved one’s current abilities. If they always helped decorate the tree, invite them to place a few ornaments or hand you decorations instead. Familiar music, scents and decorations can trigger positive memories and help them feel included in the festivities.
Keep in mind that sudden changes can be confusing or upsetting for someone living with dementia. Throughout the holiday season, try to stick to your loved one’s usual schedule, including regular meal and sleep times. If you’re hosting gatherings, plan them for the times of day when your loved one feels most alert and calm. This is often in the morning or early afternoon.
Create a calm and comfortable environment.
Holiday celebrations can get noisy and overwhelming. Consider setting aside a quiet space where your loved one can retreat if things become too stimulating. Soft lighting, soothing music and gentle conversation can make a big difference in keeping him or her relaxed and engaged.
The Alzheimer Society of Canada reminds us that to provide a safe home environment, we should also focus on prevention. “Take care to look around and see potential hazards such as carpets that may cause a fall, poisons that are easily accessible, a gas-fire stove top, small objects that could choke and doors that could lock accidentally and trap someone inside,” advises their website.
Focus on meaningful moments, not perfection.
It’s natural to want every holiday to be picture-perfect. However, for families affected by dementia, the focus should shift to small, meaningful moments. Sharing a cup of hot cocoa, flipping through an old photo album or singing familiar carols together can spark joy and connection even if your loved one doesn’t remember every detail.
It’s important to prepare your family members and home’s visitors too. If guests haven’t seen your loved one in a while, gently explain his or her condition beforehand. Encourage visitors to speak slowly, make eye contact and engage with kindness and patience. Setting realistic expectations helps avoid awkward situations. It also ensures that everyone can interact in a way that’s comfortable and supportive.
Enlist compassionate dementia support at home.
At Senior Homecare by Angels, we understand how important it is for those living with dementia to remain in familiar surroundings. Our Dementia Support at Home program is designed to help individuals adapt to the challenges of dementia while receiving compassionate, and meaningful essential service assistance where they feel the safest, the most secure and the most at home.
We are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please don’t hesitate to call us at 403-862-0129 or if outside of Calgary, toll-free at 1-877-209-6142. You may also visit our Contact Us page to complete and submit a simple contact form!