Making Memories with Dementia Patients During the Holidays

Reconnecting with loved ones challenged by dementia can be a daunting task, often feeling like engaging with a stranger. Understanding their current dementia stage is crucial to avoid causing anxiety and overstimulation, which can affect their attention span and overall engagement in activities. However, we all wish to create lasting memories and relive moments they once cherished.

Here are some activity suggestions for your loved ones:

1. Reminiscence Activities:

   - Explore old photo albums or scrapbooks. Encourage storytelling and sharing memories. Play music from their era to evoke emotions and memories.

2. Sensory Stimulation:

   - Assemble a sensory box with various textures, scents, and colors to explore. Bake holiday cookies or prepare simple recipes, focusing on textures and scents. Use scented candles or essential oils to bring back holiday aromas.

3. Holiday Decorations:

  - Decorate the living space with festive lights, ornaments, and decorations. Involve them in safe, simple decorating tasks, such as ornament placement.

4. Art and Crafts:

   - Encourage painting, drawing, or crafting simple holiday-themed projects. Create handmade holiday cards or decorations.

5. Music and Singing:

   - Sing holiday songs and carols together. Play seasonal music and encourage them to sing along or move to the rhythm.

6. Nature Walks:

   - Take short, gentle walks to enjoy outdoor holiday decorations and the beauty of nature. Collect leaves, pinecones, or other natural items for crafting.

7. Light Displays:

   - Visit local holiday light displays and drive through neighborhoods with festive decorations. Create a mini light display at home using string lights and safe, flameless candles.

8. Storytelling:

  - Read holiday stories or poems aloud. Create your own stories based on holiday themes together.

9. Holiday Movies:

   - Watch classic holiday films with simple, heartwarming storylines.

10. Social Connections:

    - Host small, intimate gatherings with close friends and family to avoid overwhelming situations. Facilitate conversations and connections to reduce feelings of isolation.

11. Adaptive Games:

    - Play simplified card games, puzzles, or board games. Choose games with large, easy-to-handle pieces and clear rules.

12. Relaxation Techniques:

    - Practice gentle yoga or relaxation exercises. Use aromatherapy or massage techniques to promote relaxation.

13. Volunteer Opportunities:

    - Engage in volunteer activities suitable for their abilities, like assembling care packages for those in need. Encourage a sense of purpose and giving.

Customize activities to match the individual's cognitive and physical abilities and remember that the joy of the activity matters more than the result. If scheduling a separate day outside the holidays works better for your loved one, don't hesitate to do so. The key is to create and cherish memories. Additionally, maintaining a calm and predictable routine is crucial, as familiarity often comforts those with dementia.

With Love, Nurse Evelyn