Festive Care, Supporting Loved Ones with Dementia This Christmas

Christmas can be a challenging time for both People with Dementia and their Carers. The season's changes in routine, often a source of stability for the Person with Dementia, can be unsettling. Additionally, the noise and energy typical of holiday celebrations may increase stress levels.

To help make the festive period more enjoyable and less stressful for everyone, consider these practical tips:

Supporting the Person with Dementia (PWD)

· Remind the PWD of the day’s plans. A visual schedule on a whiteboard or pinboard can be helpful.

· Simplify Communication: Ask one question at a time and keep conversations straightforward to ensure they can follow along.

· If visitors are expected, place a photo of each visitor by the door to help the PWD identify them. If a person who they can’t remember visits, avoid asking, “Do you remember?” Instead, say, “Look, it’s Jane who used to live next door to you.”

· Gradual Changes: Introduce Christmas decorations gradually. Use familiar decorations and reminisce about family Christmas traditions. Familiar Christmas music and gradual adjustments can provide comfort. Have a quiet retreat space for moments of overstimulation.

· Involve, Don’t Exclude: the Person with Dementia may have had a significant role in making the Christmas meal. They may find it difficult if they are excluded from preparations. Encourage participation in holiday tasks like peeling vegetables or setting the table. Break tasks into manageable steps to help them feel included and maintain their confidence.

· Keep routines as familiar as possible to reduce anxiety.

· Engage in Reminiscence: Spend time reminiscing about family Christmas traditions, looking through photo albums, or discussing favourite Christmas songs and meals. Physical comfort, like holding hands, can also help them feel more secure.

· For PWD who may struggle with eating, serve smaller portions and space activities throughout the day.

· Keep it as Healthy as possible. Incorporate physical activity like a walk, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, and limit alcohol intake.

· Address Difficult Topics Gently, be in their Bubble: If the PWD mentions someone who has passed, don’t contradict them. Instead, enter their perspective, gently distract, and reminisce about happy memories involving that person.

· Minimize overstimulating environments to keep things calm and manageable use distraction and reminiscing to bring comfort.

For Carers and family members, remember to Practice Patience: Be understanding of their needs and responses. Make time for yourself to engage in activities you love and celebrate in ways that bring you joy.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can create a calmer, more supportive environment that allows both the Person with Dementia and their Carers feel more supported during the Christmas season.