Making the festive season more dementia-friendly
We know that Christmas can bring unique challenges for people living with dementia and their carers.
Festive decorations, music and social events can lift spirits, but overstimulation, disrupted routines and unfamiliar environments during the festivities can cause confusion or distress for someone living with dementia.
We want the season to be as joyful and inclusive as possible, so we’re sharing advice to help you create a comfortable, enjoyable and dementia-friendly Christmas.
- Choose calm decorations. Keep decorations simple and familiar. Avoid flashing lights or loud music as these can overstimulate. Familiar ornaments or those with personal meaning are great for evoking happy memories.
- Simplify gatherings. Keep festive celebrations small and manageable. If you’re hosting, let your loved one know who will be attending and what to expect to help them feel more prepared and let your guests know how they can help make them feel included and at ease.
- Create quiet spaces. Provide a sense of reassurance by setting up a calm, quiet area where they can take a break if they feel overwhelmed.
Memory-friendly activity ideas
Activities that spark joy and evoke happy memories can help those living with dementia feel included. Here are some ideas to try over the holidays:
- Memory sessions. Bring out old photo albums and cherished Christmas cards, and consider sensory activities like handling ornaments, smelling festive spices or listening to familiar festive music. These can be wonderful conversation starters and evoke happy memories.
- Simple crafts. Get creative with easy-to-follow crafts like decorating pre-made ornaments, making paper chains or arranging Christmas flowers. The process can be just as meaningful as the end result.
- Singing carols. Music can be a powerful way to connect. Singing along to well-loved carols or listening to classic Christmas songs can spark emotions and bring comfort.
- Baking together. Simple tasks like decorating biscuits or stirring a Christmas pudding are fantastic sensory activities and a great way to spend time together.
- Dementia-friendly events. Look out for dementia-friendly or relaxed performances at your local cinema and theatre. It’s something many places offer year-round, but they may be hosting festive events during December too.
Managing Festive Routines
We know that maintaining a sense of routine can be key to reducing stress for someone living with dementia. Here are some ways to help them feel grounded during the festive season:
- Stick to regular schedules. Try to maintain consistent mealtimes, bedtimes and other daily routines to provide a sense of normality.
- Communicate clearly. Use simple explanations or visual aids, like a festive calendar, to help them understand what’s planned each day.
- Include them in preparations. Involve your loved one in small, meaningful tasks such as setting the table, wrapping presents or hanging decorations. This can give them a sense of purpose and involvement.
- Plan for rest. Schedule downtime between activities to ensure they don’t feel overwhelmed or overtired.
- Plan ahead. Vital services like pharmacies, shops, GPs, dentists and mental health services have reduced opening hours over the Christmas period, so to make sure you are not caught out, try to plan ahead so you have everything you might need.
We know that Christmas can be a busy and emotional time, especially for carers. Remember, it’s the small moments that often matter most, a shared carol, a quiet conversation or simply sitting together. By focusing on familiarity and connection, you can create a festive season that is meaningful for everyone.
If you’re in need of further support, we offer free Dementia Inclusion Training. We have new dates available regularly on topics including Dementia and Communication, Creating a Dementia Friendly Environment. Visit our website to fine our more.
From everyone in Age Scotland’s dementia team, we will you and you loved ones a joyful Christmas and a peaceful start to 2026!
