Sharing the Holidays with a Loved One with Dementia

Cheerful anticipation, joy and gratitude are marked emotions as the “most wonderful time of the year” approaches. Even between the rustle and bustle of the season, many experience highly positive sentiments as they anticipate festivities with family and friends. Families and care partners of a person with dementia, however, may experience heightened stress levels and a more complex array of emotions including compounded feelings of sadness and emotional loss. The holidays have a way of underscoring a sense of nostalgia over changes or recognition of losses that have ensued throughout the years. This is especially true if a loved one affected by dementia is unable to fulfill their traditional role within the family, has had a notable change in personality, or seems less engaged in customary activities.