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7 Tips for Celebrating Easter with Someone Living with Dementia

March 15, 2025

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Easter is a special time to come together with family and friends to celebrate traditions and reflect on the season’s themes of hope and renewal. If you’re spending Easter with a family member in dementia care, it’s an opportunity to create meaningful moments that bring comfort and joy. With a little planning and care, you can make the day memorable for everyone.

At Franciscan Ministries, we know how important it is to honor these moments with each other. Whether it’s through shared activities or quiet reflection, the time spent together can be a gift that strengthens your connection.

  1. Keep Traditions Simple and Familiar

Familiar traditions can provide a sense of comfort and connection for individuals with dementia. Activities like decorating Easter eggs or arranging fresh flowers are simple ways to spark joy. These familiar sights, smells and sounds can often bring back happy memories.

Music is another powerful way to connect. Playing Easter hymns or songs your family member enjoys may brighten their mood or encourage them to sing along. Even just sitting quietly and listening together can create a special bond.

  1. Create a Calm, Comfortable Environment

Easter gatherings are often lively, but it’s important to create an environment that feels calm and manageable. Large crowds or loud noises might feel overwhelming for your family member. A small, peaceful celebration with close family can make all the difference.

You can add touches of Easter cheer without overloading the space. Soft pastel decorations, fresh flowers or a simple centerpiece can reflect the season’s beauty without overstimulating your family member. A calm atmosphere helps everyone relax and enjoy the time together.

  1. Share a Meal Together

There’s something comforting about gathering around the table. Sharing a meal is one of the easiest ways to connect, and it doesn’t need to be complicated. Prepare dishes your family member enjoys, keeping their dietary needs in mind. Simple, easy-to-eat foods are best.

An Easter brunch or small dinner can be a lovely way to spend time together. Even if your family member has trouble communicating, just being present with family during the meal can help them feel included. At Franciscan Ministries, we often see how meaningful these shared meals are for families and residents alike.

  1. Engage in Meaningful Activities

Activities don’t need to be elaborate to be enjoyable. In fact, simple, hands-on experiences can make the day feel special. Here are a few ideas to consider:

  • Craft Easter Cards: Help your family member make cards for family or friends. Tasks like adding stickers or coloring can be both creative and soothing.
  • Plant Flowers: Spend time planting spring blooms together. This gentle activity is a beautiful way to celebrate the season and spend quiet time outdoors.
  • Watch or Attend a Service: If your family member finds comfort in their faith, attending a short Easter service or watching one together online may be uplifting.

Choose activities that reflect their abilities and interests. The goal is to create moments of joy that feel meaningful to them.

  1. Embrace Reflection and Spirituality

Easter is a season of renewal, making it a perfect time to connect with your family member’s spiritual side. Whether it’s through prayer, scripture readings or quiet reflection, these moments can bring a sense of peace and purpose.

Even something as simple as listening to an uplifting hymn or reading a short passage can create a meaningful experience. At Franciscan Ministries, we recognize how important spirituality can be for individuals in dementia care, and we encourage families to nurture this connection during holidays and beyond.

  1. Stay Flexible and Attuned to Their Needs

Every individual’s journey with dementia is different, so it’s important to remain flexible throughout the day. Watch for signs of fatigue or discomfort, and adjust your plans if needed. Sometimes, shorter activities or quiet breaks can make the celebration more enjoyable for your family member.

If they seem overwhelmed, a short walk or quiet time in a familiar space may help. Pay attention to their cues, and remember that even small moments of connection can have a lasting impact. Team members in Indiana memory care facilities are trained to recognize these cues and work with your family member to provide comfort.

  1. Capture and Cherish the Moments

Easter is about creating memories, and even the smallest moments can hold great meaning. Take photos during the celebration to capture smiles, hugs and shared experiences. These candid snapshots can help you reflect on the day and cherish the time spent together.

Focus on capturing the feelings of connection and love rather than perfect poses. A picture of your family member holding a flower or sharing a quiet laugh can remind you of the joy in those simple moments.

Finding Joy in Easter Moments Together

Celebrating Easter with a family member in dementia care is about more than traditions or activities—it’s about showing love, offering comfort and sharing time together. At Franciscan Ministries, we’re here to support families in creating meaningful moments that honor their relatives. By focusing on what matters most, you can make this Easter a celebration of connection, peace and joy. Contact us today to learn more about Franciscan Ministries, which is among the best Indiana memory care facilities.