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How to Make the Holidays Easier for Loved Ones with Memory Loss
The holidays are meant to be joyful, comforting, and full of connection.
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Written by
Tyler Zanini, Founder at Memoryboard
But for families caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, this season can bring added stress, confusion, and emotional strain. If you’re wondering how to make the holidays easier for loved ones with memory loss, the good news is that a few intentional choices can create calm, clarity, and meaningful moments for everyone.
Below are practical, caregiver-tested tips to help your loved one feel safe, supported, and included during the holiday season.
1. Keep Routines as Familiar as Possible
People living with memory loss rely heavily on predictable routines. Sudden changes—late nights, new environments, loud gatherings—can increase anxiety or agitation.
What helps:
Keep daily schedules consistent (mealtimes, wake-up times, medication reminders).
Prepare your loved one in advance for any changes.
Use visual or written reminders to reduce confusion.
Tools like Memoryboard can help gently guide the day by displaying simple notes such as “Family coming over for dinner tonight” or “We’re having our holiday lunch at noon.”
2. Choose Smaller, Calmer Gatherings
Large or noisy events may feel overwhelming. Instead of big parties, try smaller, quieter gatherings with just a few familiar faces.
Consider:
Hosting shorter visits instead of full-day events.
Encouraging family members to stagger their arrival.
Setting up a quiet room where your loved one can rest.
3. Simplify Travel and Holiday Plans
Traveling can be challenging for someone with memory loss, especially when routines are disrupted.
If you need to travel:
Bring comfort items: photos, a favorite blanket, snacks, medications.
Stick to familiar places when possible.
Plan for breaks and avoid tight schedules.
If travel feels too stressful this year, consider inviting family to visit instead—or arrange virtual visits so no one feels left out.
4. Use Clear Visual Cues and Gentle Reminders
The holiday season brings changes to décor, schedules, and surroundings. Clear visual cues can make the environment more understandable and less confusing.
You can help by:
Labeling rooms or areas if guests are visiting.
Keeping pathways well-lit and clutter-free.
Adding simple signage like “Holiday dinner today at 5 PM” or “We’re baking cookies together this afternoon.”
A message board like Memoryboard is especially helpful during the holidays because caregivers can remotely update reminders, display photos, and schedule messages that keep loved ones oriented and confident throughout the day.
5. Honor Traditions—But Adapt When Needed
Your loved one may still enjoy certain traditions, even if they can’t participate in the same way.
Try adjusting traditions so they feel accessible:
Listening to holiday music together.
Looking through old family photos.
Decorating with simple, safe items.
Baking one or two easy recipes instead of tackling a full menu.
The goal isn’t to recreate the perfect holiday—it’s to create moments of connection.
6. Prepare Family and Guests Ahead of Time
Sometimes friends or extended family may not fully understand how memory loss affects your loved one. Preparing visitors ahead of time can reduce uncomfortable situations and make interactions more positive.
Share simple tips like:
Speak slowly and clearly.
Introduce yourself, even if you’re family.
Avoid correcting or arguing.
Focus on emotions, not accuracy.
When everyone knows how to support your loved one, the environment becomes calmer and more enjoyable.
7. Don’t Forget to Care for Yourself
Caregivers often shoulder the weight of holiday planning. It’s okay to simplify, say no to certain events, or ask others to bring dishes. Your well-being matters too.
You deserve moments of rest, joy, and connection this season.
Final Thoughts
Figuring out how to make the holidays easier for loved ones with memory loss doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With small adjustments—keeping routines predictable, reducing overstimulation, offering clear reminders, and focusing on familiar traditions—you can create a holiday season that feels calmer and more meaningful for everyone.
And if you need help creating clarity at home, Memoryboard is designed to support families just like yours. From gentle reminders to personalized holiday messages, it helps loved ones feel safe, connected, and supported—no matter the season.
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