Managing Winter with Mom

With shorter days and colder weather, it can be a challenge to help your parent stay connected while keeping the winter blues at bay. Here are four engaging, easy and safe experiences you can enjoy together.

Create Art 

To ward off feelings of restlessness while being cooped up indoors, put their mind and hands to work by creating art together. Consider your parent’s abilities when choosing a medium – sculpting with clay, painting with watercolors, or creating a collage with craft paper and photos, are all safe and appropriate for people living with dementia.

Take a Scenic Drive

On a day when the roads are clear, go for a drive to a familiar place that is part of your loved one’s past, or take them to a scenic viewing area. The scenery can spark memories and create joy for those with dementia – and the natural beauty of winter is easier to enjoy from the warmth and safety of a car. Create a playlist of tunes from their youth to add to the experience.

Attend an Armchair Concert

Visual and auditory stimuli can help your parent resonate with familiar and pleasant sounds or sights. Stream a concert from one of their favorite artists, sing, dance and enjoy a simple mocktail together. It’s a great way to connect and engage with music (without the steep ticket fees).

Stay Cozy Inside

When the weather is especially wintry, snuggle up indoors under a cozy blanket with a hot cup of tea or cocoa, and read books aloud by the fire. Work on puzzles, playing a board game or go through photo albums. These relaxed moments of connection with your parent during these quieter times may be the ones you treasure most.