Mother's Day can be a hard day for caregivers of people living with dementia for many reasons- grief, loss, added pressure to create a special day, and the emotions and complexities that come with caregiving. We hear you and see you and know that you are doing your best as a caregiver.
Celebrating Mother's Day with a loved one who has dementia can be challenging, but there are still meaningful ways to make the day special for both you and your mom (that hopefully won't add any pressure to the day).
Here are some meaningful ways to make today special:
Create a scrapbook: Gather old photos of your mom, family members, and special moments, and create a scrapbook or photo album that you can look at together. This can help spark memories and provide an opportunity for you to reminisce together. Already have a scrapbook created? Pull it out and look through it together and talk about old times.
Watch her favorite movie or show: Choose a movie or TV show that your mom loves and watch it together. This can provide comfort and familiarity for your mom, and you can enjoy spending time together.
Make her favorite meal or treat: If your mom has a favorite food or dessert, consider making it for her or maybe even making it together! This can be a special treat for today.
Create a sensory experience: Create a sensory experience for your mom by playing her favorite music, lighting candles, or providing comforting scents such as lavender or vanilla. This can help create a relaxing and enjoyable environment for her.
Write her a letter: Write a heartfelt letter to your mom expressing your love and appreciation for her. This can be a meaningful keepsake that she can treasure and a way for you to share how you feel about her.
Bring her a flower arrangement (or pick flowers together to create an arrangement!): Flowers have been shown to have mood-boosting effects on people, and receiving a bouquet can be a way to lift someone's spirits and make them feel happier.
Remember, the most important thing is to spend time with your mom and show her your love and appreciation! Keep in mind her current abilities and interests and choose activities that she will enjoy.
