Supporting a Loved One with Dementia This Christmas

December 19, 2024


The festive season can be challenging for not only those with dementia but their support network too.

With an estimated 982,000 people living with dementia in the UK, with this number expected to rise to 1.4 million by 2040, it’s crucial to understand how to provide support during the festive period.

Here are some practical tips to help make Christmas more enjoyable for everyone:

Create a Calm Environment

  • Put decorations up gradually over a few days to avoid overwhelming changes to the person’s usual setting
  • Reduce unnecessary noise like Christmas crackers and loud music, and limit competing sounds by turning off the TV when people are talking
  • Set aside a quiet room where the individual with dementia can have some downtime if they feel overwhelmed

 

Maintain Routines

  • Stick to familiar routines as much as possible, including meal times, medication schedules, and favourite daily activities
  • If the person usually attends church, consider online or televised services if attending in person isn’t possible

 

Encourage Involvement

  • Involve the individual in simple Christmas preparations, such as wrapping presents, writing cards, or helping with food preparation
  • Choose activities they can participate in, like watching a Christmas film together rather than playing complex board games

 

Adapt Traditions

  • Revisit classic traditions that may trigger happy memories from the past
  • Use reminiscence therapy by showing photos or playing songs from their past and asking about their memories

 

Support for family carers

It’s essential for family members to look after themselves too. Consider joining local support groups or events for carers during the festive period. Organisations like Age UK , Alzheimer’s Society and Dementia UK can provide information about local gatherings in your area.

Our expert team at Bridgewater Home Care provide specialist Dementia care for those individuals living with a form of Alzheimer’s or dementia. To give families some time back to themselves over the Christmas period, our team work to ensure continuity of care to individuals whilst providing respite and support to care-giving family members.

Shining a light on Dementia care:

 

Raising awareness about dementia is essential, especially during significant times like Christmas when families come together.

Campaigns such as World Alzheimer’s Month aim to challenge misconceptions about dementia and promote understanding within communities.

By participating in these initiatives, we can help create a more inclusive environment for those affected by dementia, ensuring they feel valued and supported during the festive season and beyond.

Additionally, organisations like the Alzheimer’s Society encourage everyone to engage in conversations about dementia, share experiences, and advocate for better resources and support.

By shining a light on dementia, we not only honour those living with the condition but also work towards breaking down stigma and fostering an understanding that can lead to improved care and support systems for individuals and families alike.

This Christmas, let’s commit to being more aware and compassionate towards those living with dementia, ensuring that they feel included in our celebrations while recognising their unique needs.

By following these tips and being mindful of the challenges faced by people with dementia, we can help create a more inclusive and enjoyable Christmas for everyone. Remember, the most important gift we can give is our time, patience, and understanding.

 

If you or a loved one requires some extra support over the Christmas period with specialist dementia support or respite care, please get in touch with your friendly local team. 

 

Or simply fill our an enquiry form through our website and a member of our team will be in touch.