The holiday season is a time of celebration, togetherness, and sensory delights. But for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia, this bustling time of year can also bring challenges. At Morning Pointe Senior Living communities, we understand the importance of creating moments of joy and peace for seniors and their families during this special season. Here are some helpful tips to ensure the holidays remain meaningful and enjoyable for everyone.
Finding Calm Amid the Festivities
The holidays fill homes with joyful sounds — conversations, laughter, football cheers, and the clatter of cooking — but these sounds can become overstimulating for someone living with brain disease. If you are bringing your loved one to your house for a holiday, to help them feel comfortable, create a calm space where they can interact in a more controlled environment. For example, reserve a quiet area in the kitchen or dining room where they can spend time with just one or two family members at a time. If you’re visiting your loved one at a Morning Pointe community, plan for shorter visits of 20–30 minutes, keeping the group small to avoid overwhelming them.
Celebrating the Senses in Small Moments
The holiday season offers a celebration for all the senses, and your loved one can still find joy in these moments. Consider activities that tap into the nostalgia and sensory delights of the season:
- Singing familiar Christmas carols
- Watching a holiday movie they’ve always loved
- Helping prepare or enjoy holiday recipes
- Taking a scenic drive to see festive lights
- Directing the decoration of the Christmas tree
- Wrapping gifts or adding bows to packages
Often, the magic of the holidays isn’t in the big events but in the small, cherished moments. These simple yet meaningful activities can provide comfort and connection for your loved one. Our Lantern program directors focus on providing these kinds of activities to help bring memories to the forefront and a sense of familiarity and comfort.
Thoughtful Holiday Gift Ideas
Choosing the right gift for parents or loved ones living with dementia can be challenging. Instead of adding to their collection of items, focus on gifts that provide comfort and enhance their daily lives. Thoughtful options include:
- A cozy sweater in their favorite color
- Warm slippers with non-slip soles for safe walking
- A digital photo frame filled with family memories
- A basket of their favorite shampoos, lotions, or other pampering items
- A weighted lap pad or blanket for added comfort
For those who need companionship, encourage friends and family to visit one-on-one. Our Morning Pointe communities are always open for visitors of all ages! Plan a simple activity for each visit, such as working on puzzles, joining a community activity, or enjoying pet therapy with the family dog or cat. Remember, the greatest gifts are often those that cannot be wrapped — your time, presence, and love.
Wishing You a Joyous Holiday Season
At Morning Pointe, we believe in making the holidays special for every resident and their family. By focusing on calm, connection, and meaningful moments, the season can be a time of joy and peace for loved ones living with dementia. From all of us at Morning Pointe, we wish you a happy, healthy, and joyous holiday season!
