Supporting an aging family member or other loved ones with dementia during the holidays requires careful planning and consideration to ensure a positive and comfortable experience for everyone. Allentown and the Lehigh Valley are the home of South Mountain Memory Care, a unique “small house” memory care community. We offer the following tips to help you navigate the holiday season with a loved one with dementia.
1. Maintain routine Stick to the person’s regular routine as much as possible. Familiarity can help reduce anxiety and confusion.
2. Choose familiar settings If celebrating at home, decorate with familiar items. Avoid excessive decorations, because they may be overwhelming.
3. Limit crowd size Keep gatherings small and intimate. Too many people or a noisy environment can be distressing for someone with dementia.
4. Create a quiet space Designate a quiet and comfortable space where the person can retreat if the festivities become overwhelming.
5. Simple decorations Use simple, non-distracting decorations. Avoid blinking lights or loud music that might cause confusion.
6. Engage in meaningful activities Plan activities that the person with dementia can comfortably participate in, such as looking at photo albums or listening to familiar music.
7. Adjust meal plans Consider dietary restrictions and preferences. Offer familiar and easy-to-eat foods to make the dining experience enjoyable.
8. Communicate changes in advance If plans deviate from the usual routine, inform the person with dementia in advance to reduce anxiety.
9. Involve them in preparations Include the person in simple holiday preparations. This can provide a sense of purpose and involvement.
10. Provide clear instructions If the person is still able to participate in activities, provide clear and simple instructions. Break tasks into manageable steps.
11. Be mindful of sensory overload Be aware of sensory stimuli (lights, sounds, smells) that may overwhelm the person. Adjust the environment accordingly.
12. Create memory aids Use memory aids, such as labels on doors and pictures, to help the person navigate the environment.
13. Encourage one-on-one interactions Smaller, one-on-one interactions may be more enjoyable for a person with dementia than large group activities.
14. Offer support to caregivers If you’re not the primary caregiver, offer support to those who are. Allow them breaks and time for self-care.
15. Be flexible Be prepared to adapt plans if necessary. Flexibility is key when dealing with the unpredictable nature of dementia.
16. Use technology mindfully If virtual celebrations are necessary, keep in mind the person’s comfort level with technology. Ensure a simple and familiar setup.
17. Celebrate earlier in the day Consider scheduling celebrations earlier in the day when the person tends to be more alert.
Remember that each individual with dementia is unique, so it’s essential to observe their reactions and adjust plans accordingly. The primary goal is to create a calm and comfortable environment that allows your loved one to enjoy the holidays in a way that suits their needs.
South Mountain Memory Care, with our unique culture, “small house” model, and abundance of certified caregivers, offers you the peace of mind of knowing your loved one will be cared for as if they were our family—which they are!
South Mountain Memory Care is committed to providing individualized, compassionate care to support our residents in achieving a well-balanced lifestyle. We strive to allow our residents to remain independent while emphasizing safety. Our focus is to enrich their life—mind, body, and spirit—by bringing new initiatives into their day-to-day regimen while maintaining the activities they find comfort in. South Mountain Memory Care offers the peace of mind you deserve. When it comes to those you care so deeply about, we understand because we care, too.