The busy changes to routines and home environments that come with Christmas can be challenging for relatives or friends living with dementia. Unexpected decorations, noisy family gatherings, and altered meal times can feel disorientating. However, Christmas also brings wonderful opportunities for reminiscing about happy memories and feeling a sense of purpose by contributing to family celebrations.
Libby Price, Co-Director of The Filo Project explained:
“There’s no doubt that caring for someone with dementia is challenging, but we believe that with the right support for both the person living with the condition and their family, people can still live well with dementia and feel part of a family Christmas.”
We’re sharing our advice for families to navigate the festive period and support their loved ones with dementia in feeling involved in home festivities. Our tips for navigating Christmas with dementia include:
Stick to Routine Where you can
If your loved one has set meal times, music they like to listen to in the mornings, or a favourite spot to sit in, try to maintain this over the Christmas period. If they’re going to be in a different environment, such as a relative’s house, bring along something familiar from home and let them know what’s going to happen, but try not to overwhelm them with information.
Involve People at Their Own Pace
Focus on your loved one’s interests and abilities rather than what they may no longer be able to do. If they enjoy music, try playing some favourite Christmas songs and having a dance. Keen cooks could help with peeling the vegetables, while creative individuals might enjoy activities like wreath making. Take things at their pace and avoid overdoing it.
Help Others Know What to Expect
If your loved one with dementia has changed since friends or family last saw them, take the time to update them. Encourage others to keep conversations simple and help them understand ways to involve your loved one in activities, ensuring they feel included.
Avoid Overstimulation
Limit competing noises by turning off the TV while people are talking, and try to reduce unnecessary noise such as crackers. Keep activities short and consider creating a ‘quiet space’ if the person feels overwhelmed. This might be a separate room if available, or simply offering the person headphones so they can listen to music to block out noise and feel calmer.
Take Away the Pressure
Caring for a loved one with dementia can be a lonely experience and even when they have friends and family around, many feel isolated. If you have a friend or relative who is a dementia carer, one of the best gifts you can give them is your time and undivided attention. Ask them how things are going and really listen to what they are saying without offering opinions or advice unless asked.
If you’re the carer, try not to put too much pressure on yourself to recreate Christmas as it once was. Enjoy the day for what it is, accept help when it’s offered and try to find time to do something just for you.
Filo Family Support
Our small and friendly Family Support Service team offers regular, confidential phone support to families and care partners of our clients. We use a well-being listening approach allowing time and space for caregivers to share their thoughts and feelings, and discuss the challenges they are facing.
We hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful Christmas.