Engaging in holiday activities that stir the senses and encourage participation is vital for seniors with dementia. It offers them comfort and a sense of belonging. Sensory-based and straightforward pursuits can hugely benefit those with dementia and help them tap into familiar feelings and happy memories. Check these simple holiday-themed projects and activities for your senior loved ones that bring meaning to the season.
Sensory-Based Holiday Activities
- Listen to Holiday Music — Listening to holiday music can be a magical experience that sparks memories and emotions. Recognizable tunes can be calming and comforting for seniors with dementia. Create a playlist of classic holiday songs like "Silent Night" or "Jingle Bells." Listen to them together and maybe even hum along. It is a beautiful way to bond and bring smiles to the faces of everyone in the family.
- Use Holiday Scents — Holiday scents like pine, cinnamon, and vanilla can conjure up warm and cozy recollections. Aromatherapy is a gentle way to kindle the senses of those with dementia. Consider using essential oils or scented candles, but always ensure the scents are not overwhelming. You can use them safely by opting for diffusers or potpourri. It is a small but potent touch that can make the environment feel festive and inviting.
Visual and Memory-Engaging Activities
- Dig Out the Photo Album — Photos have the power to transport us to different times. For seniors with dementia, looking through old holiday photos can elicit storytelling and bring back memories. You might also think about creating a personalized photo album or slideshow together. This activity encourages everyone to share in precious moments from the past.
- Watch Movies — Movies have a unique way of establishing connections and triggering old reminiscences. Choose classic holiday films that are heartwarming and easy to follow, like "A Charlie Brown Christmas" or "It's a Wonderful Life." Watching movies together is a great way to spend a pleasant afternoon and derive enjoyment from a beloved tradition.
Simple Holiday Crafts
- Make Easy Ornaments — Crafting can be a therapeutic experience when kept simple and supervised. Ideas like making paper snowflakes or decorating ornaments can bring out the creative spirit in seniors. It is essential to ensure these crafts are safe and offer help when needed. The process itself is as rewarding as the festive decorations that result from it.
- Create Holiday Cards — Making holiday cards can be a rewarding activity for seniors. Gather simple card-making supplies like colored paper, stickers, and markers, and encourage creativity. A handmade card can bring much joy, whether giving one to a family member or receiving one back. It is a chance for seniors to express themselves and connect with loved ones in a heartfelt way.
Holiday Traditions
- Bake Favorite Holiday Treats — The scent and taste of holiday treats can be deeply nostalgic and enjoyable. Find easy recipes that involve minimal steps, like making sugar cookies or decorating pre-made gingerbread. The act of baking and tasting together can be an immersive sensory experience that sparks memories and delivers delicious results.
- Have a Sing-Along — Sing-alongs can be an uplifting experience for all involved. Organize small group gatherings with familiar carols and encourage everyone to join in no matter their musical skills. This activity promotes social interaction, fortifies emotional well-being, and brings people together in a harmonious celebration of the season.
Celebrating the Season Together
Senior Helpers provides a wide range of comprehensive, in-home senior care services, including dementia care. If you live in the Provo, Sandy, American Fork, or South Jordan areas, contact us anytime at Senior Helpers Provo. Our compassionate care team is dedicated to providing personalized care and support for your loved one this holiday season and beyond.