
Remember when…? Holidays may be rich with tradition and fun, however for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia holidays can bring about a focus on loss. By choosing an approach where you invite the individual you are caring for to help you, you can give them a sense of belonging and usefulness this holiday season. Be certain to give thanks and show your appreciation for their input.
The sparkle of the lights, glitter of the wrappings, holiday music, and fragrances may spark memorable moments. The season is rich with smells, sounds, and sights. While focusing on the process, always offer the opportunity to reminisce about days gone by. The longer term memory will hold more meaning than the here and now.
Here are a few suggestions to wrap up the holidays in happiness and hone in on meaningful times filled with fun and flexibility:
- Rhythmic activities: singing, listening to holiday music, telling familiar stories, reciting prayers and reading poetry
- Cards: listing, making, writing, reviewing, signing, sorting, delivering
- Decorating: make place cards, place mats, dinner menus, bows, wrapping
- Crafts: look through photographs, make an album, collage or ornaments
- Recipes/baking: measuring, kneading, rolling, crushing, spooning, stirring, peeling
- Preparing a meal: setting the table, folding napkins, washing vegetables, ripping lettuce, snapping beans
- Holiday Lights: in many areas it is dark early enough to get out for a ride to take in some of the sights of the beautiful decorations
About the Author

Gary Skole
Gary is a founder of AlzBetter with decades of experience improving care for patients with challenging healthcare needs at home. He is a published author and frequent speaker on Dementia, Transitional Care Management, and Patient Engagement.
More From AlzBetter

Holiday Activities and Memory Loss
Tips about how your approach as a caregiver or family member can increase the quality of life for the individual with dementia, caregivers, and family members.

Dementia: The Importance of Establishing a Bathroom Routine
Establishing a regular bathroom routine can help to promote the individual’s dignity and independence

Dementia’s effects on hospitalizations for people living with dementia and how to prepare
Dementia is a progressive brain disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.

Can small steps produce big results in dementia care?
Care management programs to support dementia care partners don’t have to be complicated or all encompassing. Learn how to get started with small, achievable interventions.

The new realities – and new opportunities – of value-based-care
The onset of COVID-19 invites us to consider a value-based-care approach, like outsourced selected care management services, as a powerful solution to plugging revenue gaps.

I Can See Clearly Now: Keeping Up With Vision Changes
Anyone with a form of dementia does not escape the routine aging process. It’s easy forget that our loved one still needs routine eye exams.