The holidays are often filled with family, traditions, music, food, and celebrations. But for a person living with dementia, all that excitement can sometimes become overwhelming.

Changes in routine, unfamiliar visitors, loud conversations, decorations, travel, and large gatherings can create confusion, anxiety, or frustration. The goal doesn’t have to be creating the “perfect” holiday—it should be creating meaningful moments where your loved one feels safe, comfortable, and included.

Consider simplifying traditions rather than eliminating them. Keep gatherings smaller when possible, maintain familiar routines, provide a quiet space to retreat to, and avoid correcting or arguing if your loved one becomes confused. Most importantly, meet them where they are.

Remember that connection is more important than perfection. A favorite holiday song, looking through old photographs, decorating cookies together, or simply sitting beside one another may become the most meaningful part of the day.

Caregivers should also remember to give themselves grace. You don’t have to attend every gathering, maintain every tradition, or make everyone happy. Adjusting expectations can make the holidays more enjoyable for both you and the person you care for.

🎥 Want more practical tips? Watch our “Surviving the Holidays with a Person Living with Dementia” video on YouTube, where we discuss ways to reduce stress, navigate family gatherings, communicate more effectively, and create meaningful holiday moments with someone living with dementia.

This holiday season, focus less on what has changed and more on the moments of connection that are still possible.

The holidays may look different—and different can still be beautiful.