5 ways to keep Christmas stress-free for dementia sufferers

December 5, 2016

If you’re hosting Christmas this year for a friend or family member with dementia, follow our five simple tips to make the festive season merry and stress-free for all.

With one in six people over the age of 80 suffering from dementia in the UK, it’s likely you know someone with the disease.

Sufferers have difficulties with memory, mood, communication, reasoning and orientation. A stay away from home, even for a short time, can pose a real challenge.

But there’s nothing that makes Christmas more than a big family gathering, and for many dementia sufferers a change of scene can be really beneficial. Perhaps you also want to relieve a relative who does most of the day-to-day caring.

1. Twas the night before Christmas
People with dementia often have problems with orientation and memorising instructions. They may know their way around their own home, but a new place can be bewildering.

Print out (or get your children to design) some very simple and clear signs to put on the doors to all the key rooms (toilet, bathroom, kitchen, bedroom, etc). Illustrations, as well as words, are really helpful. Then as soon as they arrive, walk them around your house and show them where everything is.

2. Christmas morning
Some studies indicate that as many as 20 percent of people with Alzheimer’s will experience increased confusion, anxiety and agitation in the late afternoon and early evening, known as ‘sundowning’. So embrace the crisp winter’s morning and plan your more stimulating activities early on, when the person with dementia should be feeling fresher. A short walk outside is a great idea as this helps to regulate the internal body clock.

3. All the trimmings
Pigs in blankets, stuffing, Yorkshire puds, even brussel sprouts – a Christmas dinner is a truly wonderful thing, but all those extras soon add up to a mountainous plate of food. Bear in mind that a heaving plate can be daunting for someone who may have difficulties eating. The person with dementia may also feel self-conscious at a large dinner table, so avoid making them the centre of attention.

4. The Queen’s speech
In quieter moments – such as when the family’s slumped in front of the TV mid-afternoon – have some low-key activities to hand. Look through old photo albums together, put on one of their favourite feel-good comedy shows, or simply involve the person with dementia in your own activities. Designate a quiet room, away from the noise of television and music, and allow time for a nap.

5. Silent night
Around 40 per cent of people with dementia will suffer sleep disruption, but there are a few things you can do to try to minimise this. Find out what their usual bedtime routine is and try to replicate this as closely as possible. Add some familiar and comforting items to their bedside table such as a family photograph, nightlight or ornament. A dementia clock is also a really good tool.
Leave night-lights on in the hallway, and keep the bathroom door open. You may want to consider a stair gate to prevent any nasty accidents, and give you peace of mind.

We wish you all a very merry and enjoyable Christmas.