CHRISTMAS means many things to many people. Perhaps typically a time for food, family and festivities but for people affected by a dementia and their carers it can be more difficult.

There is always so much to consider at Christmas and that’s especially true for those with a dementia and their carers so with help from the online community Talking Point, the Alzheimer’s Society and Tavistock Dementia Alliance have compiled a few tips to help you make the most out of the festive season and support your loved one, and yourself, this Christmas in Tavistock.

Five top tips for carers at Christmas

1. Put decorations up gradually

Introduce the Christmas environment slowly.

Think about putting decorations up gradually over a few days so it doesn’t come as a big change to your loved one’s usual setting.

‘This year I put the tree up early in December to brighten the place up and it made Mum so happy, she especially likes the old wreath she has had for years even if she doesn’t recognise it.’

2. Keep it simple and familiar

Someone with dementia may feel overwhelmed over the Christmas period so it’s best not to overdo it. Keeping the day’s activities low key will help your loved one to relax. Sticking to a familiar routine is also a good idea where possible. Having meals at regular times and in familiar surroundings will help to limit any potential confusion.

3. Get everyone involved

There are many ways to involve people living with dementia at Christmas time – from something as simple as hanging a bauble on the tree to doing a bit of Christmas shopping. The important thing is that everyone feels included.

‘With Christmas cards, my ‘D’ still wanted to send them out so I got him to write his name on a piece of paper. I then scanned, resized and copied them and printed them out onto computer labels.

‘Mum helped me to stick in a few of the labels so everyone felt involved and I wrote the recipient’s name in at the top and did the envelopes. We did about 25 cards for ‘D’ that year and he would never have been able to write his name more than once.’

4. Create a quiet room

A large number of guests can be overwhelming so perhaps even ask family and friends to spread out their visits over the festive period.

If things do get busy, designate one room in your house as a ‘quiet room’ where your loved one can relax without loud noise.

5. Bring back old memories

Whether it’s an old song anyone used to enjoy or a classic Christmas film find something fun all can take part in. Making a family photo album or memory box could be a nice way to spend time together.

‘I have created a memory iPad which has nothing but hundreds of photographs of friends, family and places. Using my computer I have added names, year dates and place names.

‘It has been a long labour of love but has paid off dividends as I update it regularly with new photos of interest to ’G’.’

Tony Parker, chairman of the Tavistock Dementia Alliance added: ‘Happy Christmas! Although many people may eat, or even drink, a lot at Christmas, a full plate and the sight of bottles of wine can be daunting for someone who has difficulties eating or drinking.

‘If you’re doing the serving, try not to overload your loved one’s plate. — you can always sneak a glass of wine in the kitchen later!’