Although the holidays are full of celebration, they can also be a challenging time for family caregivers and individuals living with dementia.
By adapting traditions and creating an inclusive environment, you can shape dementia-friendly celebrations that bring joy to everyone.
Lauren Tritschler, a certified dementia practitioner and memory care director at The Birches at New Hope, shares tips to make the holidays merry and meaningful:
Adjust expectations: Give yourself grace and take on what you can safely manage. Adapting celebrations and keeping occasions small reduces stress for both you and your loved one.
Tritschler says, “Modify mealtime! It’s still a holiday meal at 1 pm. Fellowship, family, and love are what matter most.”
Prepare for visitors: Update guests on your loved one’s condition. Explain their diagnosis and any changes in abilities or symptoms. Fear of dementia is a thing, and even family members can hesitate to engage.
Tritschler suggests bringing out photo albums, home movies, or heirlooms to reminisce, or playing favorite music and encouraging a sing-along.
“Your loved one will feel the connection. Avoid questions that start with ‘Do you remember?’ Try instead, ‘This is one of my favorite pictures of us; it was such a special day! What do you think?’” she says.
Include your loved one: Assign simple tasks like mashing potatoes, setting the table, or saying the blessing to highlight their strengths and help them feel valued and purposeful.
Create a safe, calm space: Keep decorations simple and reduce noise. When guests are visiting, designate a quiet room where your loved one can retreat if overstimulated.
“Above all, sit back and enjoy the holiday. If you’re relaxed, your loved one will be too. What matters most is that you’re all together making lasting memories,” she says.
