A new year is a fresh start for many, bringing feelings of hope, excitement and anticipation. However, this time of year can be overwhelming and cause feelings of anxiety and uncertainty for people living with dementia. As the world around them changes, they may be struggling with fears for the future.
At The Beeches, we understand that these changes can be unsettling not only for the person living with dementia, which can cause stress for those caring for them. To help ease some of these fears, we have put together a few tips on how you can support your loved one with dementia to navigate the new year.
Tips for Supporting Loved Ones with Dementia to Navigate the New Year
Create a Calm and Familiar Environment
To minimise stress and any potentially overwhelming situations that might occur in the new year, it’s crucial to maintain as much consistency as possible for people living with dementia.
Maintaining routines, playing familiar music and engaging in their favourite activities can provide a sense of safety and familiarity, helping to alleviate any anxieties and confusion.
Engage in Meaningful Activities
Engaging in activities that bring joy and are cognitively stimulating can be a wonderful way to support people living with dementia through the new year.
Spending time with friends and family, music, games and even reminiscing about memories you have made together are excellent examples of activities that can not only bring happiness but also stimulate cognitive function to help alleviate anxiety at this time of year.
Communicate Clearly and Patiently
People with dementia are likely to experience increased anxiety and confusion during periods of change like the new year, which could lead to temporary regressions or difficulties with communication.
It is important to be as patient and understanding as possible during these times. To help manage these challenges, try to communicate slowly and clearly, ensuring that your resident or loved one has the opportunity to express their feelings and fears in their own time.
Seek Outside Support For You and Your Loved One
If you or the person you are supporting with dementia is struggling, it can be valuable to seek outside support from a variety of sources.
Support groups, family, friends and community resources can provide invaluable emotional support, understanding and a sense of community, helping to reduce the feeling of isolation, as well as fears and concerns about the future.
By understanding the challenges faced by our residents or loved ones living with dementia at this time of year, you can help them to navigate this period with greater ease and comfort.
If you’d like to learn more about The Beeches care home in Ixworth, please call us at 01359 230773 to book a viewing.