7 Meaningful Ways to Help People with Dementia Feel Less Lonely During the Holidays

The holidays can be bittersweet for families with a loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Family gatherings, familiar recipes, and old traditions may bring back happy memories, but they can also remind everyone how much has changed. Someone who once looked forward to hosting Christmas dinner may now find a busy celebration difficult to follow. That doesn’t mean they cannot enjoy the season. A little extra thought and attention can help people with dementia feel included and remind them that they remain an important part of family life.

How Loneliness Affects People Living with Dementia

Living with dementia can change the way someone interacts with family, friends, and the world around them. Conversations may become difficult, familiar social situations feel uncomfortable, and staying in touch with others takes more effort. As a result, someone can feel lonely even when family members and friends are nearby.

One study shows that 42.7% of people living with dementia experience loneliness. Another study of 1,547 people with mild-to-moderate dementia found that approximately 30% experienced moderate loneliness, while 5.2% reported severe loneliness.

These numbers show how important it is to make time for family and friends, even when dementia changes the way someone communicates or remembers.

Why the Holidays Can Be Especially Difficult

Holidays can feel different when someone in the family has dementia. A loved one who used to cook holiday meals, decorate the house, or greet guests at the door may now need help with things they once did on their own.

There may also be practical challenges. Relatives travel, children have school holidays, and family schedules become busier. Meanwhile, large gatherings can be tiring for someone who has difficulty following several conversations or adjusting to changes in their surroundings.

Holiday Situations That May Cause Discomfort

Here are a few things families should keep in mind when planning celebrations:

• Too many people at once: A crowded living room with several conversations happening simultaneously can make it difficult to participate.
• Changes in routine: Eating later than usual, skipping a nap, or having a busy day filled with activities can be confusing or tiring for someone with dementia.
• Unfamiliar faces: During the holidays, family members and friends who haven’t visited in a while may come over. Your loved one may have trouble recognizing them or remembering who they are.
• Feeling left out: Family members may unintentionally speak about their loved one rather than including them in conversations.
• Missing old traditions: Someone may no longer be able to take part in activities they once enjoyed, which can be difficult for both the individual and their family.

By understanding these challenges, you can help people with dementia enjoy holiday celebrations in ways that feel comfortable and meaningful.

7 Ways to Help People with Dementia Feel Less Lonely During the Holidays

If you’re thinking about how to help people with dementia enjoy the holiday season, start with activities that reflect what they have always liked. Not every suggestion will suit every person, so pay attention to their reactions and let them decide how much they want to participate.

1. Bring Back a Favorite Holiday Tradition

Your loved one can still enjoy familiar holiday traditions, such as decorating the Christmas tree or baking cookies. They may need a little more help than they used to, but you can still do these activities together. Let them take part in their favorite holiday activities, without rushing or expecting too much.

2. Make Time for Smaller Family Visits

Large holiday gatherings can be overwhelming for someone with dementia, especially with several conversations happening at once. Visits with just a few close relatives can help people with dementia follow conversations and enjoy time with family. Try to arrange these visits when your loved one is usually well rested and keep them short enough that they don’t become tiring.

3. Send a Holiday Card with a Family Photo

If you can’t be there for the holidays, send a card with a family photo and a handwritten note. Tell your loved one what’s new with the family, whether someone got married, welcomed a baby, or went on a memorable trip. Include a few photos with names if you can. They may enjoy looking through them with a family member or care partner.

4. Listen to Favorite Holiday Music Together

Listening to holiday songs your loved one has enjoyed for years can be a nice activity to share. They may recognize a favorite carol and sing it along, or recall past holiday celebrations. Even if they don’t feel like talking, you can still enjoy the music together.

5. Give Them a Small Part in Holiday Preparations

Many families want to keep their loved ones involved in traditions for as long as possible. Try offering simple activities such as folding napkins, arranging decorations, sorting greeting cards, or choosing a holiday centerpiece. When helping someone with dementia, avoid correcting small mistakes or rushing to finish the task. Choose an activity you both enjoy.

6. Bring a Personal Gift When You Visit

If you’re wondering what to bring when you visit a loved one in memory care, a family photo album can be a good place to start. You can look through the pictures together and talk about the people in them. Other gifts might include a warm sweater, a favorite book, a cozy blanket, or a small holiday decoration for their room. Before your visit, ask the care team about any restrictions on gifts or personal items.

7. Keep Celebrations Familiar and Comfortable

Sticking to familiar routines can help people with dementia feel more comfortable during the holidays. Try to visit when your loved one is usually well-rested, and choose a quiet place to spend time together. Watch how they’re feeling, especially if other visitors or holiday activities are going on. If they seem tired, shorten the visit or take a break. You can look at family photos, share a few stories, or just sit and enjoy each other’s company.

Make the Holidays Special at The Vincent in Lafayette, Louisiana

Help people with dementia feel included in holiday celebrations by keeping family traditions alive in ways that suit their current needs. For some families, that may mean changing how they celebrate. For others, it may involve finding new ways to spend time together.

Families caring for Alzheimer’s at home know how much time and attention their loved ones need. Between work, family responsibilities, and holiday preparations, it can become difficult to manage everything. Memory care offers additional support, along with opportunities for residents to enjoy activities and spend time with others.

At The Vincent in Lafayette, Louisiana, we provide memory care that considers each resident’s needs, interests, and abilities. Our team helps your loved ones with daily activities, encourages social interaction, and makes time for the things they enjoy. Families are always welcome to visit and continue the holiday traditions they’ve shared for years.

If you’re looking for ways to help people with dementia receive the care they need while staying active and connected with others, we’d be happy to show you around our community and answer your questions.

Schedule a personal tour to The Vincent and learn more about our memory care approach and the support available to your loved one.