Dementia-Friendly Holidays:

Staying Connected During the Holidays with Loved Ones Living with Alzheimer’s or Dementia

By Sarah Martin, CDP, Executive Director of Our PLACE Adult Day Center

The holidays are often filled with traditions, gatherings, and special moments that remind us of

the importance of family and togetherness. For families supporting a loved one with Alzheimer’s

or dementia, this season can also bring feelings of grief, uncertainty, and longing for how things

“used to be.”

But even as memories fade and communication changes, meaningful moments are still

possible. Connection doesn’t disappear; it simply transforms. With intention and gentle

adjustments, the holidays can continue to offer joy, comfort, and new traditions that honor both

the present and the past.

Below are a few heartfelt tips for staying connected with your loved one during the holidays,

helping you create moments filled with peace, warmth, and shared joy.

1. Embrace Music as a Bridge to the Past

Music has a unique ability to reach places words can’t. Even as the disease progresses, many

individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia retain the ability to sing and respond emotionally to

familiar melodies.

• Play classic holiday songs or carols your loved one once enjoyed.

• Sing together, sway, or simply listen side-by-side.

• Create a holiday playlist featuring music from their childhood or early adulthood.

Music can spark recognition, comfort, and connection, even when conversation becomes

difficult.

2. Recreate Simple, Familiar Traditions

Holidays don’t have to look the same as they once did to be meaningful. Instead of focusing on

what has changed, consider adapting old traditions in ways that are accessible and enjoyable

now:

• Bake or prepare a favorite holiday recipe together, even if your loved one simply helps stir or sample.

• Look through holiday cards, decorations, or keepsakes from years past.

• Invite them to participate in simple tasks, folding napkins, placing ornaments, or arranging festive flowers.

These small, familiar acts offer grounding and a sense of belonging.

3. Choose Inclusive and Low-Stress Activities

Connection grows when everyone feels comfortable and included. Pick activities that don’t rely

on memory or complex instructions:

• Take a gentle walk together to enjoy the lights or decorations.

• Listen to classic holiday music or watch an old holiday movie.

• Use photo albums or memory books as conversation starters.

These activities support engagement without overwhelming your loved one.

4. Focus on the Present Moment

It’s natural to feel the weight of loss during the holidays, especially when traditions change. But

meaningful connection often happens in the simple, quiet moments:

• Holding hands.

• Sharing a smile.

• Enjoying a warm drink together.

• Noticing a moment of joy, calm, or comfort.

Release expectations from the past and allow yourself to experience the beauty of what your

loved one can still feel and share right now.

5. Create New Traditions That Bring Joy

Sometimes the most meaningful traditions are the ones we begin when life changes:

• A holiday puzzle you work on together.

• Reading a short poem or prayer.

• Listening to a favorite song at the same time each year.

These new rituals can become cherished ways to honor your loved one and celebrate

connection in every stage of life.

Finding Joy Amid Change

Alzheimer’s and dementia can bring deep emotional challenges, especially during the holidays.

But connection is still possible, even when conversation fades, even when memories blur. By

embracing simplicity, presence, and creativity, families can continue to share meaningful

moments that bring comfort and joy.

The heart of the holiday season isn’t found in perfect traditions or long conversations; it’s found

in the small moments of love we continue to share.

Even in the midst of change, connection remains.

Sarah Martin is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and the Executive Director of Our PLACE, an

adult day center in Loudon that provides meaningful, person-centered memory care for adults

with Alzheimer’s or dementia and much-needed respite for their caregivers. It’s the only

independent, nonprofit adult day center in East Tennessee.

For more information or to see how Our PLACE can support you and your loved one, please

contact us today at (865) 657-7222 or email director@ourplacetn.org. You are not alone. Our

PLACE is here to support you on this journey.