Leading up to the festive season, thinking about caring for people with dementia in Bristol during Christmas can be a real concern.
We have specific dementia care services in Bristol available. The following general guidance on looking after relatives and loved ones with dementia can also provide a helpful starting point.
If you are looking after someone with dementia, or are going to be spending time with them over the Christmas period, some of the following points to consider may well help them and you to enjoy the festivities without becoming overly anxious.
Decorate gradually
Rather than putting up all the Christmas decorations in one go, why not gradually introduce them over a few days, so the dementia sufferer isn’t overwhelmed. A rapid change in their living environment can be stressful.
Stick to simplicity
Having a simple and familiar Christmas is one of the best ways to help a dementia sufferer avoid feelings of anxiety. Having a simple but enjoyable day will go a long way to reduce any feelings of being overwhelmed.
Inclusion is everything
Try to involve the dementia sufferer in the Christmas spirit. This might mean putting just one bauble on the tree or having a low-key shopping trip. Try to avoid too much mental stimulation but involve them in meaningful events.
Have a quiet, safe space
Creating a room that is quiet will enable a dementia sufferer to retreat to a safe space if they feel the need for a quiet space without loud noise. It is also helpful to stagger family visits, so there are no crowds of people around the whole time.
Relive family memories
Christmas is a time for family and cherished memories, and this should be the same for a dementia sufferer. Talk about family moments that are important to them, share photos or create a photo album on the iPad. All of these things matter to a dementia sufferer.
Be mindful of food
A dementia sufferer can feel overwhelmed seeing a plate stacked with Christmas food, so try to cater for this during the festive period. It is better to have a small but colourful plate of delicious food that they can really enjoy.
Have a Plan B
Dementia sufferers can rapidly change what they want to do, and the environment they feel comfortable in, so it is important to have a Plan B in case the festive schedule changes. Having options will help you and them.
Arrange dementia care early
If you’re arranging dementia care for a loved one over the festive break, ensure that you organise it well in advance. Care services are always in demand over Christmas, and it is important to provide the best carers possible.
To find out more about how Premier Homecare provides dementia care and support services in Bristol, please visit here.
To have a chat with us about providing care for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s in Bristol, please ring our Westbury-on-Trym head office on 0117 959 2013 and mention this News post.