A dementia specialist nurse has shared her tips for helping families caring for a loved one with dementia this Christmas.

Laura Birch is an Admiral Nurse at Dementia Resource Community in Cheshire, run in partnership with Dementia UK. Admiral Nurses are supported by Dementia UK to provide life-changing support for families affected by all forms of dementia.

“For someone living with dementia, Christmas can be a wonderful time, but it is important to consider ways of reducing anxiety and distress, during this period,” she said. “Someone living with dementia may prefer a quieter occasion, which may mean Christmas looks a little different to what it used to.”

Her tips include:

• Let a loved one celebrate Christmas in their own home, and do not travel long distances to visit family if this would cause them distress. This may vary from person to person.

• If it is a busy household, it’s a good idea to give someone with dementia some space, some quiet time, such as after the meal. Allowing them to go to their room for a rest is OK.

• Consider your Christmas decorations and whether they might be a little overstimulating. Some people may find flashing lights cause them further distress, while other decorations may pose a trip hazard. If someone has visual hallucinations, the decorations may appear as something else.

• Involve your loved one and to consider what their strengths may be. For example, they may feel able to put baubles on the tree, to help with some Christmas baking, or enjoy some Christmas carol singing. This will help them to feel involved, and meaningful.

• Long-term memories can remain longer than short-term memories. At this time of year, reminiscence activities can reduce anxiety and promote good tidings. Playing Christmas songs and carols can help to bring back all sorts of memories.