The holiday season is a time of celebration, of gathering with family and friends. If you have a loved one with an Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis, you may be wondering how you can include them in the celebration in a way that is meaningful and not stressful.

If you’re planning a holiday party this year, these ideas can help you create an event that everyone will enjoy:

• Consider the timing of the party. Certain times of the day can be better than others for adults with Alzheimer’s disease and related forms of memory loss. Consider this if your loved one suffers from sundowning syndrome, which causes confusion and anxiety to worsen as the sun sets.
• Plan a quiet period at the party. Depending on the stage of Alzheimer’s your family member is in, it may be necessary for them to take a break after spending time with visitors. Make a calm space for them to go if your loved one begins to feel agitated or become upset.

There should be some familiar items present, as well as soothing music and calming activities. You could provide family photos to look through or an art project to complete. In this peaceful setting, arrange for one-on-one visits from friends and relatives so your loved one still gets the benefit of socializing.

• Plan your party day activities carefully. Everything from last-minute decorating to food preparation can make the day of a party hectic and stressful for hosts. An adult with memory loss may find it difficult to process a chaotic environment. This may cause your loved one to become agitated or feel anxious.

Keep your family member as far away from the chaos of the pre-party as possible. It may be beneficial to visit respite care or an adult day service if your loved one requires specialized care. If not, consider asking a familiar loved one to assist by spending the day with them.

• Inform family and friends of the diagnosis in advance. It’s a good idea to let guests know ahead of time if they aren’t familiar with your family member’s diagnosis. However, not all family members understand how Alzheimer’s disease affects daily life. A brief text message or email outlining the situation is usually sufficient and will help your family and friends understand your loved one better.

You may have a lot of questions if your loved one has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia. Should my loved one live in a care community, for example?

At Radiant Senior Living communities, we place a strong emphasis on the value of individualized care services based on individual needs. We use the most recent advancements in building design and care philosophies to lessen the effects of our residents’ symptoms and enable them to live comfortably and securely.

Contact a Radiant Senior Living community near you to learn more about the benefits of senior care for your loved one’s well-being.

Holiday Celebrations & Dementia FAQ

How can I make a holiday gathering easier for someone with dementia?
Plan the celebration around times when your loved one feels their best, keep the environment calm, and provide a quiet space for breaks.

What should I do if my loved one becomes overwhelmed?
Offer a peaceful area with familiar items, soothing music, or a calming activity. One-on-one visits can also provide connection without the stimulation of a large group.

Should I tell guests about my loved one’s dementia diagnosis?
Yes. A brief message before the gathering can help family and friends understand what to expect and interact more comfortably with your loved one.

Can a senior living community help someone with dementia?
Yes. Senior living communities may offer individualized care and supportive environments designed around the needs and abilities of each resident.