Visiting loved ones in memory care during the holidays can be both rewarding and challenging. With thoughtful planning, you can make these visits meaningful, creating calm, enriching experiences for your loved one. Here are some tips to help make the most of your time together.
- Time Visits for Their Best Hours
Individuals in memory care often have certain times of day when they’re more alert and comfortable, typically mid-morning or early afternoon. Scheduling visits during these times can help reduce fatigue and create a better environment for engaging, positive interactions.
- Keep the Environment Calm and Familiar
Holiday sights and sounds can be overwhelming for those in memory care. Create a calm environment by bringing only a few small, familiar holiday items, like a favorite ornament or family photo. Minimal decorations and low noise levels help your loved one feel at ease.
- Embrace Simple, Nostalgic Activities
Familiar holiday activities like singing carols, reading stories, or sharing holiday treats can bring comfort. Activities that connect with your loved one’s past help trigger positive memories and allow them to engage in the moment without stress. If possible, work on a simple craft or decoration together for a joyful, hands-on experience.
- Focus on the Senses
Using sensory experiences can help those with memory loss recall pleasant memories. Bring items with soothing textures or gentle scents, like a soft holiday blanket or a cinnamon sachet. Familiar holiday music and tastes like peppermint can also evoke happy memories and create a comforting experience.
- Keep Conversations Short and Simple
Stick to clear, simple sentences and focus on the present moment. Avoid overwhelming them with questions; instead, reminisce with statements like, “I remember you always loved baking holiday cookies.” Keeping things simple and familiar can make conversations more enjoyable and less confusing.
- Adjust Expectations and Stay Flexible
Aiming for a “perfect” holiday visit can be challenging in memory care. Be prepared to adjust if your loved one gets tired or needs a break. Even a brief interaction—like holding hands, listening to music, or looking at photos—can create a feeling of connection without requiring a lengthy visit.
- Use Visual Memories Like Photos
Visual aids can be an effective way to prompt recognition and joy. Bring a small album of past holiday photos, ideally with just a few people in each, to avoid confusion. If your loved one enjoys the album, it can be something they revisit, bringing moments of happiness beyond your visit.
- Keep Groups Small
While it’s tempting to bring the entire family, large groups can be overwhelming. A quieter, more personal visit may be more comfortable and allow for closer engagement. If multiple family members want to visit, consider rotating in small groups to keep things intimate.
- Share Moments with Patience
Remember that your loved one may not respond as expected. Small expressions of joy, like a smile or a soft laugh, are meaningful. Even if they don’t fully recall your visit, the warmth and comfort of your presence can leave a positive impression that lingers.
- Give Yourself Grace
These visits can bring up mixed emotions; it’s okay to feel both joy and sadness. Be kind to yourself, focusing on the quality of time rather than perfection. Your effort to spend time together, even in simple ways, creates meaningful moments of connection that truly honor the holiday spirit.
Simplicity and Warmth in Your Holiday Visit
Holiday visits may look different in memory care, but with a gentle approach, they can still be filled with warmth and connection. Embrace the spirit of the season by creating moments of love, togetherness, and kindness with your loved one.