Jan 21,2025
❄️ Winter brings its own set of challenges for caregivers of individuals living with dementia. From keeping warm to navigating seasonal changes in routine, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But amidst the snow and slipper-wearing escapades, there’s room for humor and heartwarming moments. Here’s how to embrace the cozy chaos while keeping your loved one safe and comfortable this season.
Have you ever walked into a room to find your loved one bundled up in three sweaters, two pairs of socks, but no pants? Winter dressing with dementia can turn into an unexpected fashion adventure. Temperature perception can change with age and dementia, making it tricky for individuals to regulate body heat. Tip: Lay out outfits in advance, sticking to easy-to-wear layers that are both warm and comfortable. If they insist on wearing the same cozy sweater daily, have a backup identical one ready to rotate in.
Caregivers know the struggle: one minute, the house is a sauna, and the next, you’re fetching extra blankets because your loved one is convinced it’s the Arctic. Many seniors feel colder due to circulation changes, but cranking the heat too high can be unsafe. Tip: Keep a thermostat at a comfortable setting and use layered clothing and heated blankets to help regulate warmth. If needed, distract with a warm drink (bonus points for hot cocoa and marshmallows).
Nothing says winter like a warm bowl of soup—but when soup becomes a three-day recurring meal request, it’s time to get creative. Many individuals with dementia find comfort in familiar meals and may become fixated on certain foods. Tip: Prepare similar easy-to-eat meals with variety. Try a new soup recipe with familiar flavors or introduce different textures while keeping mealtime comforting and predictable. And when in doubt? Just enjoy the ritual of soup time together—it’s about connection, not just cuisine.
Shorter days can bring sundowning symptoms, where confusion, anxiety, or restlessness increase in the evening. This shift in daylight can be unsettling for someone with dementia, making them feel disoriented. Tip: Keep rooms well-lit, close curtains before it gets dark, and stick to a calm evening routine with relaxing music, soft lighting, and a warm drink. If nighttime wandering becomes a challenge, motion-sensor night lights can help guide their way safely.
Winter doesn’t have to be all about challenges—it can also be filled with small, cozy moments that bring joy.
Winter caregiving can be unpredictable, but finding humor in the little moments can make the season brighter. Whether it’s convincing your loved one that yes, pants are necessary, or learning to appreciate the magic of soup on repeat, these moments are all part of the journey.
Stay warm, stay patient, and remember—laughter and love are the best ways to get through the winter together. ❤️
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