It’s the Holidays and Grandma has Dementia

Creating Joyful, Safe Holiday Traditions with a Loved One with Alzheimer’s

The holidays are a time for cherished traditions, but when a beloved family member like Grandma develops Alzheimer’s or dementia, those traditions may need to shift. Not long ago, Grandma might have been the heart of holiday preparations—cooking meals, decorating the house, and delighting the grandkids. Now, to ensure everyone can enjoy the season safely and stress-free, a few adjustments can make all the difference.

Here are some simple, thoughtful ways to adapt your celebrations to create new memories while keeping your loved one safe and engaged.

Tips for Safer Holiday Decorating with Alzheimer’s in Mind

Even subtle changes to the environment can cause disorientation or stress for those with cognitive challenges. Here are decorating tips that keep the holiday spirit alive while minimizing risks:

• Clear the floors: Avoid rugs, extension cords, or tangled decorations that could become trip hazards.
• Non-blinking lights: Blinking lights and large displays can cause confusion or agitation. Stick with steady, calming lights.
• Avoid edible-looking ornaments: Replace glass fruit or food-like decorations with non-edible alternatives to prevent mishaps. Feel free to string popcorn!
• Use battery-operated candles: Eliminate fire hazards by using flameless candles.
• Limit busy environments: Crowds and noisy spaces like malls can overwhelm your loved one, increasing the risk of wandering. Consider shopping solo while they enjoy a quiet day at home.

Creating New Holiday Traditions for Joy and Engagement

If old traditions no longer fit your family’s needs, introducing simple new activities can be both meaningful and fun. These ideas provide comfort, joy, and engagement for your loved one with Alzheimer’s, while allowing the whole family to participate.

• Play familiar holiday music: Songs from their era—like Bing Crosby or Dean Martin—can spark joy and nostalgia.
• Bake and decorate cookies together: Repetitive activities like baking are soothing for those with dementia and offer a sense of accomplishment.
• Make paper chains: Pre-cut strips of construction paper and use glue sticks to assemble chains that can brighten any room.
• Use silk poinsettias: These festive plants reduce the risk of someone accidentally ingesting a leaf.
• Create pomanders: Let your loved one poke cloves into oranges and hang them with ribbons—this sensory activity may evoke happy memories from their youth.
• Decorate pinecones: Glittered pinecones make beautiful, tactile decorations for wreaths or centerpieces.
• Crack nuts with an old-fashioned nutcracker: A nostalgic and hands-on activity that can bring joy and connection.

Tips for Holiday Gatherings: Keep It Simple and Calm

• Designate a quiet space: Provide a peaceful area where your loved one can retreat if they become overstimulated.
• Engage with small groups: Large gatherings can be overwhelming, so consider hosting smaller get-togethers with close family or older children.
• Teens make great companions: Involving teens in these simple activities is a wonderful way for them to connect with their grandparents meaningfully.

Keep the Holidays Fun, Simple, and Safe

Family dynamics change, and so do holiday traditions. While the holidays may look different this year, with a few thoughtful adjustments, they can still be filled with new, sweet memories.

If you need additional support or ideas, Concierge Care Advisors is here to help. We’ll guide you every step of the way. Call us at 855-444-7364 or visit our website to speak with one of our Senior Advisors.