Holiday family gatherings can be challenging, especially for those with dementia, but with a few helpful holiday tips for dementia caregivers, you can be inclusive and enjoy the time together. Instead of dwelling on what the holidays were like in years past, some of the best advice dementia care experts have to offer involves focusing on the present and developing strategies to roll with the changes to preserve the holiday spirit of gratitude. According to dementia care expert Teepa Snow, the following guidance will help make your holiday gathering more dementia-friendly.

1. Think Simple

Think smaller. Simplifying celebrations can go a long way in reducing sensory overload. Be aware of overstimulating background noise and loud chatter or simultaneous conversations. Also, consider gathering with a familiar tradition, whether it’s a song, prayer, or activity. It can help a person with dementia feel more oriented and engaged.

2. Find Ways to Make Favorite Activities Manageable

Dementia can make it challenging for a person to participate in things they enjoy doing and can lead to feelings of exclusion, loneliness, or frustration. Consider one or two activities the family member has loved in the past and search for strategies to support them in taking part if possible. Keep them included in the decision-making process.

3. Build in Time for Rest

Planning dementia-inclusive activities is a great step to a happy holiday but be sure to keep activities well-spaced and relatively brief in duration. Adding downtime, like having a cup of tea or hot cocoa, offers the person with dementia a chance to rest and recharge. During this downtime, create a more private or out-of-the-way space where a loved one can relax and observe.

Also, consider hosting gatherings at the time of the day when those with dementia tend to function best.

4. Just have Fun and Be Willing to Adapt

Despite a family’s best efforts, the holiday gathering may not always work out. It is okay to call it a day if a person with dementia feels out of sorts. Thus, have a backup plan, such as designating someone to drive them home and care for them, which offers the primary caregiver a chance to stay for the rest of the gathering.

With these tips in mind, we hope the holidays are filled with joy for you and your loved ones. Happy Holidays from Rothkoff Law Group!