Meaningful Ways to Support a Loved One With Dementia During the Holidays
The holidays are filled with tradition — the meals, the music, the decorations, the familiar rhythm of “how we’ve always done it.” But when you’re caring for a loved one living with dementia, those traditions may look different.
Over time, I’ve learned that the most meaningful moments during the holidays aren’t the ones that go exactly as planned. They’re the ones where we simply show up — where we stop trying to make things perfect and instead focus on being present.
Understanding the Importance of Presence
When someone you love is living with dementia, your presence can be the most powerful form of comfort and connection.
You don’t have to fill every moment with activity or conversation. Often, what your loved one needs most is simply to feel your calm energy and steady reassurance. Slowing down allows both of you to breathe — to notice small joys, to laugh when something unexpected happens, and to stay grounded in what really matters.
Simple, Meaningful Gestures
Being present doesn’t mean doing nothing; it means doing less, but with intention. The simplest gestures can carry deep emotional meaning for someone living with dementia:
- Listening to music together
A familiar song can awaken recognition and emotion even when words are hard to find.
- Sharing a favorite scent, food, or object
A whiff of a favorite perfume, a slice of pie, or the touch of a soft blanket can evoke powerful memories.
- Looking through old photos
Pictures often help bridge the gap between the past and present — reminding your loved one (and you) of all the love and life you’ve shared.
These moments may seem small, but they can bring connection and joy in ways that go far beyond words.
Helping Them Feel Included
Holidays can be overstimulating, but they can also be wonderful opportunities for inclusion.
Think about what your loved one enjoyed most before — and find small ways to adapt those traditions. Maybe they can help stir ingredients for a family recipe, hang one ornament, or sit near the kitchen while the family cooks.
Encouraging involvement, even in gentle ways, helps preserve dignity and belonging. It tells your loved one, “You still matter here.”
The Caregiver’s Gift
Caring for someone with dementia is both beautiful and complex. There’s love, gratitude, and connection — but also moments of sadness and loss. Allowing yourself to feel both is part of what makes your care so meaningful.
Grace and gratitude are powerful companions on this journey. The more you slow down and focus on presence, the more you’ll notice that there are still moments of light — laughter over a shared song, a quiet smile, a hand held a little longer than usual.
Those are the gifts that matter most.