Planning a Dementia-Friendly Holiday Celebration
Planning holiday festivities that include a loved one with dementia might seem daunting, but there are many ways to make the season fun and inclusive.
Your guide for a dementia-friendly holiday celebration
People living with dementia may need additional support to make them feel comfortable in what may be a festive — but busy and over stimulating — environment. To create a dementia-friendly holiday celebration, follow the expert-vetted guidance below.
1. Create a quiet, calm nap space
People living with dementia can be particularly sensitive to environments with bright lights, loud sounds, and large crowds. Even smaller family gatherings may be a source of anxiety for your loved one. Dr. Alexis Eastman, a clinical associate professor at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, told Being Patient about the importance of creating a designated space for rest.
“Your brain uses the vast majority of your calories in a given day, and having a nap space is a great thing to have in a house,” Eastman said.
If your loved one is getting agitated or is withdrawn, this could also be a sign that they need to rest.
2. Pick dementia-inclusive activities
It isn’t always clear how to best include a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia in family activities. The reality is there are many dementia-inclusive activities you can try with your loved one.
For example, if this guest enjoys cooking, skip the new and challenging recipe this year and opt for one that is familiar to them. Preparing the ingredients in advance and involving your loved one in simple tasks like stirring batter or decorating cookies can also give them a sense of accomplishment.
3. Customize your playlist
Foster connections among people of all ages at your holiday gathering by asking everyone to play a few of their favorite songs. Listening to music is a social activity with proven therapeutic benefits. Researchers at George Mason University found that listening to just 20 minutes of music can boost mood and cognitive function for people with dementia. They recorded significant increases in joy, eye contact, being engaged, as well as talkativeness among study participants.
Dr. Concetta Tomaino, executive director and cofounder of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function, shared some specific ways to help people with dementia engage with music.
“Whatever the music that you like to listen to, you should spend some time together each day to listen [to the music],” Tomaino told Being Patient. “Maybe sing some of the songs. If there’s [a] good upbeat song that you can play to do some exercise and movement, that’s really great.”
4. Simplify your plans
While holidays can be an anxiety-inducing time for many people, one of the most effective ways to reduce holiday stress and support your loved one with dementia is by simplifying your plans. Minimize extended holiday travel if possible so that your loved one is in a familiar environment. If you do need to travel, make sure you clearly plan bathroom rest stops and meals along the way.
Keeping your gathering small and close to home can create an environment that lends itself well to meaningful conversation among your loved ones and minimizes planning needs.
Ultimately caregivers should try to be as flexible as possible, Eastman says. “Everything’s going to take more time and it’s going to require more adjustment.”