Father’s Day is a special occasion to honour the fathers, grandfathers, and father figures who have shaped our lives. For families whose loved ones are living with dementia, it can be both a heartfelt and bittersweet day. At Crouched Friars, we believe that even in the presence of memory loss, the bonds of love and family can still be deeply felt and celebrated. With thoughtful planning and a gentle approach, Father’s Day can be meaningful, comforting, and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Understanding Dementia on Special Days
Dementia affects each person differently, and the progression of symptoms can vary widely. Some individuals may still remember specific people or events, while others may experience confusion or disorientation. Emotional memories, however, often remain even when factual recall fades. That means your presence, tone of voice and gestures of affection can still resonate powerfully – even if names or relationships are forgotten.
Father’s Day doesn’t have to be a grand event to be meaningful. What matters most is the shared feeling of connection. A relaxed, low-pressure environment can help avoid overstimulation or frustration, allowing your loved one to feel safe and included.
1. Tailor the Celebration to Their Needs
When planning your Father’s Day celebration, consider your loved one’s current cognitive and physical abilities. Keep the event simple and familiar. Here are a few ways to do this:
- Keep It Small and Quiet: A large, noisy gathering can be overwhelming. A quiet get-together with a few familiar faces often works best.
- Familiar Surroundings: Celebrating at home or in a familiar care setting, such as their room at Crouched Friars, can help reduce anxiety and confusion.
- Routine Matters: Try to schedule your visit or celebration at a time of day when your loved one tends to be most alert and comfortable, often mid-morning or early afternoon.
2. Share Meaningful Activities
Activities that engage the senses and evoke positive emotions can be especially powerful. Even if your loved one doesn’t remember specific details, the experience itself can create a sense of joy and calm. Here are some ideas:
- Look Through Old Photos: Choose pictures of familiar places and family members. Use them as a gentle prompt to spark conversation or simply enjoy them together.
- Listen to Music: Music has a unique ability to reach people with dementia. Play favourite songs or music from their youth – it may trigger pleasant memories or encourage them to hum or sing along.
- Create Together: Simple crafts or puzzles can be enjoyable, especially if they don’t require complex thinking or fine motor skills. Just be sure to match the activity to their abilities.
3. Give Thoughtful, Practical Gifts
Gift-giving can still be part of the day, but focus on items that will bring comfort or joy. Some suggestions include:
- Soft blankets or slippers
- A favourite snack or treat (if permitted)
- A personalised photo album or memory book
- Scented hand lotion or a favourite cologne
- Comfortable clothing, like a cardigan or soft shirt
It’s less about the item and more about the message: “I’m thinking of you. You matter to me.”
4. Include the Whole Family
Father’s Day can be a meaningful way to bring generations together. If younger family members want to be involved, consider how they can connect in simple, respectful ways:
- Have children draw pictures or make handmade cards.
- Encourage short visits where children can share stories or sing a song.
- Prepare a family meal or dessert that honours the father figure’s heritage or favourite cuisine.
Seeing multiple generations together can be uplifting, even if your loved one cannot fully grasp the relationships.
5. Be Flexible and Patient
Even the best-laid plans may need to shift. Dementia can bring unexpected behaviours or moods. Your loved one may not respond as hoped – they might be confused, tired or even withdrawn. This is not a reflection of your effort or the depth of their love.
What matters most is your presence. Sitting quietly, holding their hand or simply being in the room together can be powerful. Patience, kindness and acceptance go a long way in making the day meaningful.
6. Reflect and Reconnect
After your visit or celebration, take time for yourself and your family to reflect. What moments felt meaningful? What seemed to bring comfort or connection? Even small interactions – a smile, a laugh, a shared song – can be deeply significant.
And if the day felt challenging, that’s okay too. Caring for a loved one with dementia can be emotionally complex. At Crouched Friars, we’re here to support families through every step of this journey, including days like Father’s Day that carry extra emotional weight.
Celebrating with Dignity at Crouched Friars
At Crouched Friars, we understand the importance of honouring the unique lives of our residents. We provide thoughtful support and a nurturing environment where family visits and special days can be experienced with comfort and dignity. Whether it’s through reminiscence therapy, music sessions, or simply creating a calm space for connection, our team is here to help families make the most of these moments.
If you’re planning to visit us this Father’s Day, our staff are more than happy to help arrange a quiet space, prepare a memory-based activity, or suggest ways to personalise the day for your loved one.
Final Thoughts
Father’s Day is about celebrating love, legacy, and connection. For those living with dementia, the past may be hazy, but the present still holds deep emotional meaning. With patience, empathy, and a little creativity, we can honour the fathers in our lives in ways that are both gentle and memorable.
If you’d like support planning your Father’s Day visit to Crouched Friars or have questions about dementia care, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.