Holiday party tips for seniors with Dementia

​Celebrating Christmas with seniors living with dementia can be fun and stress-free! Here are a few tips from our Memory Care Team to make the celebration extra special for everyone. 
First, plan the social gathering during the time of day your loved one has the most energy, this way they will feel the most alert and comfortable. Your loved one might also be most comfortable staying close to home.
Melody Living senior living has several meeting and dining spaces available to host residents’ family members during the holiday season! Be sure to keep the guest list small. Too many people can be overwhelming for your loved one. 
Make sure you choose foods that are favorites of the guest of honor. Prepare dishes as small bites that are already familiar to your loved one and easy to consume. Assign someone to make your loved one a plate and get them a drink to enjoy – we recommend a beverage they enjoy that isn’t alcoholic. Add a cute holiday straw to make for easy sipping.

​Be sure to provide your guests with friendly reminders about how to engage with your loved one. Make sure they introduce themselves properly upon arrival. They should provide their name and who they are as soon as they arrive. Remind loved ones to practice patience and understanding if your senior loved one appears distressed or uncomfortable or does not engage with a family member. 
Finally, take a photo together. You will cherish the memory for years to come and you can put the photo in a frame for them to enjoy throughout the coming year.
To learn more about the Melody Living’s memory care community in Lake in the Hills, give us a call at 847.957.7070.