Supporting Seniors with Dementia During the Holidays

Gentle Guidance and Warm Reflections for Families and Caregivers

Navigating the Holidays Together

The holiday season brings moments of joy and togetherness, often lighting up our homes with laughter and tradition. For seniors living with dementia, this special time may also bring challenges, such as changes in routine and increased activity. With a touch of understanding and compassion, families and friends can help ensure that everyone feels included, comfortable, and cherished.

Gentle Holiday Challenges Faced by Seniors with Dementia

• Changes in Routine: Shifts in daily schedules during the holidays can sometimes feel unsettling for those with dementia.

• Too Much Stimulation: Extra guests, music, and decorations may be a little overwhelming, so it's helpful to create calm spaces when needed.

• Memories and Emotions: Familiar traditions may spark both comfort and longing, especially if recalling past events is difficult.

• Travel and New Places: Visiting unfamiliar places or staying away from home can be disorienting, so gentle reassurance is important.

  
  

Kind Ways to Create a Supportive Holiday

1. Stick to Familiar Routines: Keeping regular mealtimes and restful habits provides comfort and stability.

2. Simple, Safe Decorations: Choose loved, gentle decorations and make sure spaces are uncluttered to maintain safety and ease.

3. Quiet and Cozy Gatherings: Smaller groups and peaceful areas help make celebrations comfortable for everyone.

4. Shared Joy in Simple Traditions: Singing favorite songs, baking together, or looking through photo albums can offer meaningful moments.

5. Thoughtful Communication: Let family and friends know the best ways to interact with your loved one, encouraging kindness and patience.

6. Watch for Overwhelm: Be mindful of signs your loved one may need a break, and adapt plans as needed with gentle flexibility.

   
   

Cherishing Connection

At the heart of the holidays is the gift of togetherness. Even if every detail isn’t remembered, seniors with dementia can sense love and belonging in shared smiles, warm embraces, and peaceful company. Treasure these simple joys and let them shape your celebrations.

Tending to Caregivers

This season can also be demanding for caregivers. Remember to care for yourself: turn to your support network, take moments to rest, and honor your feelings. Reaching out to others who understand can bring comfort and encouragement.

With a gentle approach and thoughtful planning, the holidays can be a time of meaning and warmth for families touched by dementia. By focusing on comfort, routine, and heartfelt connection, every member of the family can share in the spirit of the season.

Are you noticing significant cognitive decline?

During the holiday season you may be seeing older loved ones you have not seen in a while.  You may observe that their dementia has progressed and are concerned they cannot make sound medical, personal, or financial decisions.  Without a durable power of attorney or healthcare representative in place it may be time to consider a guardianship for medical and personal advocacy, or a conservatorship for financial decision making.  These are court proceedings, and it may take several weeks for the judge to appoint a guardian or conservator with the average cost of $3,000-$5,000.  It is advisable to consult with an attorney for more information.

If you and your family need additional support to navigate next steps, please reach out to us at the Portland Elder Care Council. Our team will help you on this journey -Your Trusted Partners in Aging Well and Planning with Confidence.