A BROMSGROVE care home has shared its top tips for a dementia-friendly Christmas.
Chandler Court – part of Care UK – has released tips to help families enjoy the festivities with loved ones while helping families with members suffering from dementia are looked after.
Vongai Mushinga, Home Manager at Chandler Court, said: “Trying to host the ‘perfect’ Christmas can put a lot of pressure on relatives, however, there are plenty of ways to make sure it really is the most wonderful time of the year for all.
“We hope these tips prove useful and would like to wish the Bromsgrove community a Merry Christmas on behalf of all of us at Chandler Court.”
1. Christmas preparations
Vongai suggested involving older relatives in Christmas preparations helps them feel part of the celebrations while also retaining their independence.
Giving them rolls like decorating the tree, wrapping gifts or stirring the Christmas pudding helps them stay preoccupied and stimulates their brain.
2. Advent calendars and traditions
Those living with dementia may have trouble with memory or keeping track of the days, especially in the lead-up to Christmas.
Offer By giving an advent calendar to a loved one, it helps them keep track of days and led to conversations about how they used to celebrate the festive season.
Recreating old traditions is another way to help your loved one reminisce and share a special moment in their past.
3. The power of music
“Don’t underestimate the power of music,” Vongai added.
Music has been proven to have significant benefits for those living with dementia, and by playing their favourite festive tunes can help raise cheer.
Connecting over singing carols is another way to bring the family together.
4. Play games
One of the most important things at Christmas is to have fun, and keeping the brain active is essential as we age.
Certain games and crafts, like pin the nose on Rudolph, increase motor skills and have physical benefits.
Visit careuk.com/chandler-court for more information.
