Supporting Your Loved Ones in Aged Care at Christmas

Christmas can be a joyful time, but when a loved one is living in residential aged care, the season can also bring up complex emotions — for them and for you. Changes in routine, distance from family, health concerns, and memories of past Christmases can make this time of year feel especially tender.

With a little planning and compassion, Christmas can still be meaningful, connected, and respectful of your loved one’s needs. Here are practical, thoughtful ways to support your loved one in aged care during the festive season.

Acknowledge That Christmas Might Feel Different

It’s important to recognise that Christmas in aged care often looks very different from Christmas at home. Your loved one may experience:

• Grief for past traditions or loved ones

• Fatigue or sensory overload from decorations and events

• Changes in cognition that make the season confusing

Rather than trying to recreate “how it used to be,” give permission for Christmas to look simpler. Validating feelings — rather than trying to fix them — can be one of the greatest gifts you offer.

Communicate Early With the Aged Care Home

Christmas is one of the busiest periods for aged care services. Speak with staff early about:

• Visiting hours and any booking requirements

• Christmas Day meals and whether families can attend

• Outings, leave arrangements, or overnight visits

• Infection control or health precautions

Clear communication helps set realistic expectations and reduces stress for everyone involved.

Plan Visits Around Energy Levels

Many older people tire more easily, especially those living with dementia or chronic illness. Short, frequent visits may be more meaningful than one long gathering.

Consider:

• Visiting earlier in the day when energy is higher

• Limiting the number of visitors at one time

• Keeping visits calm and unhurried

Quality time matters far more than the length of time spent.

Bring Familiar Traditions — Gently

Small, familiar traditions can provide comfort and connection:

• Playing favourite Christmas music

• Sharing a traditional treat (if appropriate)

• Bringing photo albums or old decorations

• Reading a Christmas story together

Be guided by your loved one’s response. If something feels overwhelming, it’s okay to step back.

Include Them, Even If They Can’t Attend

If your loved one can’t join family celebrations:

• Share photos or short videos from Christmas Day

• Arrange a phone or video call during festivities

• Bring a plate of Christmas lunch to share later

These gestures reinforce belonging and connection, even from a distance.

Be Mindful of Cognitive Changes

For people living with dementia, Christmas can be confusing. Decorations, crowds, and changes to routine may increase anxiety.

Helpful strategies include:

• Keeping explanations simple and reassuring

• Avoiding repeated reminders that cause distress

• Maintaining familiar routines where possible

Focus on how your loved one feels in the moment, rather than correcting details or memories.

Look After Yourself Too

Supporting a loved one in aged care can bring up guilt, sadness, or pressure to “make it perfect.” Remember:

• You are allowed to enjoy Christmas too

• Doing your best is enough

• Support can look many different ways

Taking care of yourself helps you show up with more patience, presence, and compassion.

Christmas Is About Connection, Not Perfection

At its heart, Christmas is about connection, kindness, and care. A quiet visit, a shared laugh, or simply sitting together can be just as meaningful as any big celebration.

By approaching the season with flexibility and empathy, you can support your loved one in aged care while honouring where they are — and where you are too.

How Aged Care Simplified Can Help

The Christmas period often brings care decisions to the surface — questions about leave, changing needs, funding, or whether current supports are still right. Trying to navigate these decisions during an already emotional time can feel overwhelming.

Aged Care Simplified exists to take pressure off families by:

• Explaining aged care options in plain language

• Helping you understand what services and funding your loved one is eligible for

• Supporting informed, person‑centred decisions — without urgency or pressure

• Acting as a calm guide when the system feels complex or confusing

By having clear information and trusted support, families can spend less time stressing over decisions and more time focusing on what matters most at Christmas: connection, presence, and care.

If you’re navigating aged care transitions or want support planning visits, leave, or future care needs, having guidance can make this season feel lighter and more manageable.