Top tips for making Christmas with dementia as stress free as possible
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
Christmas can be a stressful time for everybody, but here are some tips that can reduce excess stress this Christmas if you or a loved one are living with dementia.
This article has been compiled with support from Alzheimer Scotland
1. Play some familiar Christmas music or reminisce over photos
Playing old music and looking through photo albums can help to engage those living with dementia.
It also adds an extra touch to your festivities!
2. Put up your decorations early and slowly
Instead of decorating overnight, plan ahead and introduce Christmas decorations gradually.
This can help the person living with dementia to feel more comfortable with the festive changes.
3. Spread out family visits
A large number of guests at one time can be overwhelming, so ask family and friends to visit you at different times over the festive period.
If you are staying overnight with friends or family it can be helpful to make sure that rooms and hallways are safe and well-lit.
Adding labels to doors, for example the bathroom, can allow the person with dementia to be more independent.
4. Create a quiet room
If things do get busy, designate one room in your house as a ‘quiet room’ with an armchair to doze in away from loud noise.
Remember that carers need naps too.
5. Keep routine as familiar as possible
Christmas Day means a change to the usual routine, but serving meals at usual times and in familiar surroundings can help the person living with dementia feel more relaxed.
6. Be mindful of food
Christmas lunch can be daunting for someone who has difficulties eating, so try not to serve large portions.
7. Get outside if you can
Even though it is cold, make sure to wrap up warm and get some fresh air.
8. Take time to enjoy Christmas
It’s important that you celebrate Christmas too, so make sure you’re giving yourself time to do things you enjoy doing on Christmas Day.
9. Get your five a day
Everyone indulges at Christmas but try to ensure you’re all still eating enough fruit and vegetables per day and taking in lots of fluids.
10. Take time to talk
You don’t need to face dementia alone.
Talk to friends about it or if you need support or a chat with someone who understands, you can call Alzheimer Scotland's 24 hour Freephone Dementia Helpline on 0808 808 3000.
