To create a dementia-friendly Thanksgiving

By Melissa J. Long, CTRS | November 24, 2025

Prepare everyone by notifying guests about the condition, adjust the schedule by having dinner earlier, and maintain consistent routines. Create a comfortable environment with a quiet space, avoiding sensory overload. Involve the individual in simple, familiar tasks like setting the table or decorating, focus on reminiscing with photos or music, and simplify communication.

Before the Holiday

Inform guests:

• Communicate with family and friends in advance to explain your loved one's diagnosis, its effects, and how they can best interact and include the person.

• Prepare your loved one:

  Familiarize them with the guests by showing photos or arranging calls beforehand.

• Maintain routine:

  Keep the days leading up to the holiday as normal as possible to prevent disruption.

• Ask for help:

  Delegate tasks like shopping or cooking to family members to reduce your stress and workload.

• Plan for a quiet space:

  Ensure there's a calm, quiet area available for the person to retreat to if they become overstimulated.

During the Celebration

Schedule dinner early:

• Have the meal before sunset to help avoid "sundowning" agitation, which commonly occurs in the late afternoon and early evening.

Keep the guest list small:

• A smaller group can create a more comfortable and less overwhelming atmosphere.

Adapt activities:

• Focus on what your loved one can do and invite them to help with simple tasks like setting the table, decorating, or preparing ingredients.

Use sensory engagement:

• Play familiar music or look at old photos to encourage reminiscing.

Simplify communication:

• Avoid testing their memory. Instead, answer repeated questions patiently and use simple, clear instructions.

Be mindful of decorations:

• Avoid blinking lights, artificial fruits, or other items that could be mistaken for food.