Christmas with people suffering from dementia becomes a special experience through rituals. These rituals are not only meaningful because they offer security, but also because they bring memories to life. Whether it is the daily walk or festive traditions with a variety of sensory experiences - rituals play a central role. 

Even when detailed memories fade, scents, sounds, touch and taste can have a calming or stimulating effect. For many families, Christmas includes baking cookies together. This activity is particularly enriching as it stimulates the senses and offers a wealth of impressions. 

Scents play a prominent role here, as they are closely linked to memory and can evoke memories and emotions. Even simple actions such as kneading or rolling out the dough can strengthen self-efficacy and can still be carried out even with advanced illness. The sweet reward at the end rounds off the experience.

To improve the quality of life of those affected, it is important to consider the following:

• Use tried and tested, well-known and simple recipes.

• Make your work easier with simple cookie cutters.

• Prepare the kitchen well by placing all the ingredients and utensils within sight and easy reach, already weighed out if necessary.

• Good lighting makes it easier to see the ingredients and utensils.

• Even if it is sometimes difficult, only try to support the sick person if it is absolutely necessary. Praise them for their efforts.

Try this recipe, for example:

https://www.einfachbacken.de/rezepte/butterplaetzchen-einfach-und-lecker

We wish you and your loved ones a wonderful and sensory-stimulating pre-Christmas season!