The festive season is a time for joy, togetherness, and cherished traditions, but for someone living with dementia – and their families – it can also bring unique challenges.
Changes to routine, busy environments, and sensory overload can sometimes feel overwhelming for a loved one with dementia. However, with thoughtful planning and small adjustments, it’s possible to create a festive atmosphere that is both joyful and inclusive.
We’ve been talking to our friends at The Good Care Group and we’ve come up with our Top 10 practical tips for making Christmas at home comfortable, engaging, and meaningful for everyone.
1. Keep the decs simple
For someone with dementia, too many decorations or sudden changes in the home environment can be overwhelming and disorienting.
Opt for simple, familiar decorations that don’t completely transform the environment. Use soft, warm lighting instead of bright, flashing lights, which may be confusing.
Avoid decorations with glitter, as it can appear like dirt or dust on surfaces.
Familiar objects, like family photos or handmade decorations, can evoke pleasant memories and create a sense of connection.
2.Make it calm and comfy
The hustle and bustle of holiday gatherings can cause confusion or anxiety in people with dementia. Designate a quiet, comfortable space where they can retreat if the festivities become overwhelming.
This room should be free from loud noises, bright lights, or large groups of people, allowing for rest and relaxation. If possible, use calming scents like lavender or peppermint, which can help promote a peaceful atmosphere.
3. Stick to a routine
Routine is essential for people with dementia, as it offers a sense of security. Although Christmas may involve special events, try to maintain familiar patterns, especially around mealtimes, bedtimes, and daily activities.
Introduce new activities gradually and keep them predictable. Avoid overloading the schedule with events or visits, which can cause stress and fatigue.
Planning short, meaningful activities rather than extended gatherings will help maintain a comfortable pace.
Dementia UK’s specialist Admiral Nurses have come up with tried and tested ideas.
4. Find the familiar
Engaging people with dementia in simple, familiar holiday tasks can foster a sense of belonging.
Cutting out the mince pie pastry circles or biscuit shapes, setting the table, decorating a small tree, or listening to Christmas carols are all activities that can trigger happy memories. Use sensory activities, such as handling ornaments or smelling festive spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, as they can evoke positive memories.
However, it’s important to gauge the reaction and stop if they become overwhelmed.
5. Be patient...
Patience and understanding are key when communicating with someone with dementia, especially in a busy holiday setting.
Speak slowly, make eye contact, and allow them time to process and respond. Avoid correcting them if they make mistakes or repeat questions.
Instead, listen actively and focus on the joy of being together. Simple conversation topics about past Christmas memories (get the photo album out) or favourite traditions can bring comfort and connection.
There’s some sound advice on Christmas visits from Care UK.
6. Prep the guests
If you’re hosting a gathering, inform guests about dementia and how they can help make the person feel included and at ease.
Encourage visitors to speak calmly and avoid overwhelming them with too many questions or loud greetings. Suggest that guests introduce themselves clearly each time, as memory lapses may make it difficult to recognise familiar faces.
With proper preparation, friends and family can offer a more supportive and understanding environment.
7. Let the music play
A music playlist can be a powerful tool for someone with dementia at Christmas, evoking memories and emotions tied to familiar songs. Carols, or even those eternal Christmas Number 1 hits can create a soothing, joyful atmosphere, reduce anxiety, and spark meaningful connections.
Playlist for Life has brilliant advice and resources on creating a personal playlist.
8. Celebrate the small things
A dementia-friendly Christmas doesn’t need to be elaborate. Simple activities and moments of joy can make the season meaningful.
Whether it’s enjoying holiday music, reminiscing about past traditions, or spending quiet time together, these small, memorable experiences can bring comfort and connection.
Focus on creating a positive, safe environment that honours the spirit of Christmas.
9. Mind the menu
Holiday meals are often filled with rich, unfamiliar foods, which can be confusing or unappetising to someone with dementia. Offer simple, familiar dishes that are easy to eat.
Finger foods or smaller portions can be easier to manage, and food with contrasting colours on the plate can help with visibility. If someone refuses to eat, try again a bit later.
Avoid alcohol if it may cause confusion, and encourage hydration, as dehydration can increase confusion.
10. Care for the carer
And last, but definitely not least, make sure anybody with a particular caring role gets some time off over the holiday.
With more people than usual visiting, it’s a good time to delegate responsibilities, even for just a few hours.
Action for Carers has some good ideas on how to look after yourself at this time of year.
