Making Christmas Gentler: 7 Ways to Support Someone Living With Dementia in Chesterfield

Here are 7 practical ways to make the festive period more dementia-friendly this year, from the team at Home Instead Chesterfield.

1. Keep Familiar Routines at the Heart of the Day

Regular daily patterns reduce uncertainty, so try to keep key routines in place wherever possible. If your loved one is used to certain waking times, meal times, or afternoon rests, maintain these touchpoints.

You don’t need to keep the entire day rigid – just a few steady moments, such as a morning cup of tea at the usual time, can provide comfort.

2. Create a Calm, Comfortable Environment

Christmas decorations are part of the magic, but too much visual or noise stimulation can be overwhelming. Flashing lights, scented candles and crowded mantelpieces can make rooms feel unfamiliar.

Choose gentle lighting, uncluttered surfaces, and a layout that stays the same as usual. Familiar surroundings help your loved one move confidently and safely.

3. Offer a Quiet Space for Breaks

Festive gatherings can quickly become noisy and tiring. Prepare a peaceful area in advance, a separate room or a cosy corner, where your loved one can rest or reset.

Let family members know this space is for quiet time only. A short retreat can make the day far more comfortable for someone experiencing sensory overload.

4. Choose Activities That Feel Familiar and Doable

The most meaningful moments are often the simplest. Activities like listening to favourite songs, peeling vegetables, arranging Christmas cards or looking through photo albums can spark connection without pressure.

Pick things that match your loved one’s current abilities. Supportive, manageable participation boosts confidence and enjoyment.

5. Adapt Mealtimes to Reduce Stress

Larger gatherings, long meals, or unfamiliar dishes can feel daunting. You may find it helpful to offer food earlier in the day, or serve smaller portions spaced out over time.

If a big family meal feels overwhelming, a quieter plate in another room is perfectly acceptable. Prioritise comfort rather than trying to meet everyone else’s expectations.

6. Prepare Visitors Before They Arrive

Not everyone feels confident communicating with someone living with dementia. A quick conversation beforehand can prevent misunderstandings.

Share helpful tips: speak gently, give time to respond, avoid quizzing, and stay patient if conversations drift. Encourage shorter interactions and one-to-one chats rather than big group conversations.

A little preparation makes visits more enjoyable for everyone.

7. Notice Early Signs of Tiredness or Anxiety

The festive atmosphere may mask early clues that your loved one has had enough. Watch for indicators like agitation, stepping away from conversations, rubbing hands, or becoming unusually quiet.

Offering reassurance and a peaceful space early,  before distress escalates, helps the day end on a positive, calm note.