Creating Holiday Joy for Loved Ones With Dementia

December 11, 2024

Creating holiday joy for loved ones with dementia helps instill connection and inclusion during this festive, but often difficult, time of year.

The holidays bring an air of nostalgia as we pull out decorations and recall precious memories. For families with a loved one experiencing dementia, this tradition can be adapted to ensure a joyful experience. Here are some tips to help make decorating safe, meaningful, and enjoyable while creating holiday joy for loved ones with dementia:

1. Focus on Simple, Manageable Décor: Decorating for the holidays doesn’t have to be elaborate to be beautiful. Focusing on a few main areas can bring holiday cheer without overstimulating the person. Perhaps a well-decorated living room and entryway are all you need. Choose decorations that are easy to handle, like pre-lit garlands and unbreakable ornaments. By keeping it simple, you can make the process smoother and more enjoyable for them, and for you.
2. Include Familiar Traditions: Holidays are a time for cherished traditions, and involving a loved one with dementia in familiar activities can bring comfort and joy. Think about decorations or activities that were important in the past, like hanging ornaments or baking holiday treats. Including these traditions can trigger memories and create a comforting sense of routine. As you decorate, talk about the significance of each item. This can reinforce family history and create a sense of connection. For example, sharing stories about specific ornaments or decorations can spark moments of joy, even if they are brief.
3. Prioritize Safety at All Times: Decorating with a loved one who has dementia requires some additional safety considerations. Avoid fragile or small decorations, and ensure cords are safely out of the way. Create a designated area where they can sit comfortably and participate without any hazards. Sensory-friendly decorations, like soft garlands or scented pine cones, can enhance the holiday feel while keeping safety in mind.
4. Go Slow and Take Breaks: Decorating might need to be a slower process when involving someone with dementia, so practice patience and flexibility. If the person seems overwhelmed, take a break and return to decorating later. Short sessions can be more manageable and keep everyone in good spirits. The goal is to enjoy time together, not to create a perfect holiday scene.
5. Celebrate Small Wins and Moments of Joy: Appreciate the little moments, like hanging a special ornament or reminiscing over a favorite decoration. Capture these moments with photos, creating lasting memories to look back on after the holidays. These simple acts of connection and joy are often the most memorable parts of the season.

New Holiday Traditions for a New Season

Holiday traditions may look different, but there are countless ways to make the season meaningful. Continuum is here to support families with compassionate dementia care that prioritizes comfort, safety, and happiness. Reach out to us online or give us a call at (314) 863-9912 or (636) 861-3336 to learn more about how we can assist during the holiday season and beyond. Continuum proudly serves clients in Webster Groves, Creve Coeur, Clayton, and the surrounding communities.