Mother’s Day is a special time to honour the love, support and care that mums give us throughout our lives. It’s a day filled with appreciation, gratitude and family moments. But for families affected by dementia, the occasion can come with a mix of emotions – from joy and nostalgia to sadness and uncertainty.
If your mum is living with dementia, or if you’re supporting a loved one who is, you might be wondering how best to mark the day in a meaningful and supportive way. The good news is that with a few thoughtful adjustments, you can still enjoy a beautiful Mother’s Day together — one that puts comfort and connection first.
Here are some gentle, practical ideas for celebrating Mother’s Day with someone living with dementia.
Keep it simple and familiar
One of the most important things to remember when planning Mother’s Day with someone living with dementia is to keep things simple. Avoid large gatherings, noisy venues or anything that might be overwhelming. Instead, opt for a calm, quiet and familiar environment where your mum feels safe and at ease.
Staying in a place she knows – like her home or a familiar room – can help reduce anxiety and confusion. A simple lunch, a warm cup of tea or a gentle walk in the garden might be all you need to create a lovely day.
Revisit family traditions
Mother’s Day is the perfect time to tap into the power of nostalgia. Recreating cherished family traditions can be incredibly comforting for someone with dementia – even if they don’t fully remember every detail, the feelings associated with those traditions often remain.
You could look through old photo albums together, listen to her favourite music, or watch a film she’s always loved. If you used to visit a particular park or bake a certain cake each year, why not bring that tradition back in a gentle way?
These familiar activities can help spark recognition, boost mood and create moments of genuine connection.
Write a heartfelt letter or card
A simple yet powerful way to celebrate your mum is by writing her a thoughtful letter or card. Expressing your love and sharing some of your favourite memories not only gives her something to cherish – it also helps reinforce your bond.
Even if your mum has difficulty with memory or language, a card filled with warmth and love can still bring joy and comfort. She can return to it again and again, allowing the positive feelings to linger well beyond the day itself.
Choose sensory gifts with care
When thinking about gifts for someone living with dementia, consider items that engage the senses and provide comfort. Sensory gifts can be incredibly effective in lifting mood and offering reassurance.
Fresh flowers are a lovely option – their bright colours and gentle scent can stimulate the senses and evoke positive emotions. Other thoughtful gifts include soft blankets, scented hand creams, or framed family photos. A small photo album filled with labelled pictures can also be a treasured keepsake, helping to spark conversations and memories.
Be kind to yourselves
It’s important to acknowledge that Mother’s Day can be a difficult time for many families affected by dementia. You might be grieving the changes in your relationship, feeling sadness for what’s been lost, or simply unsure how to navigate the day.
Give yourself – and your mum – permission to feel whatever comes up. There’s no need to force a perfect celebration. Sometimes, just spending time together is enough. Sit together, hold hands, share a laugh or a cup of tea – these quiet, simple moments are just as valuable.
Remember, Mother’s Day is just one day on the calendar. If it feels too overwhelming, you can celebrate another day that feels more manageable. What matters most is the love you share – not the date or the form it takes.
A different kind of love
Dementia may change many things, but it doesn’t erase love. With a little planning and a lot of heart, you can still make Mother’s Day meaningful for your mum and for yourself. Whether through shared memories, sensory gifts or simply being present, you have the chance to honour your relationship in a way that feels authentic and kind.
However you choose to mark the day, know that you’re doing something beautiful – creating space for love, connection and appreciation in the face of change.