Caring for relatives with dementia can be challenging, especially during the darker, colder months.

The shorter days and gloomy weather can amplify feelings of confusion and anxiety for those living with dementia.

Nub News partner, Right at Home South Cheshire, has some practical tips to help navigate this period.

1. Create a safe and comfortable home environment

The changing season often means wet floors and dim lighting, which can increase the risk of falls or confusion. Ensure your home is well-lit with easy-to-navigate spaces. Soft lighting, like warm LED bulbs, can reduce shadows that might be unsettling. For added comfort, provide cozy blankets and keep the temperature consistent.

2. Maintain a routine

People with dementia thrive on routine, and the disruption of natural light can affect their internal body clocks. Stick to regular meal times and activity schedules. Use lamps with timers to mimic natural daylight, helping your loved one feel grounded.

3. Encourage safe outdoor activities

While the colder weather might make outdoor activities less appealing, fresh air and gentle movement are vital. Consider short, bundled-up walks in well-lit areas, like Crewe's Queens Park or Sandbach's Market Square. These outings can help lift spirits and improve sleep.

4. Engage in seasonal activities

Celebrate the season by involving your loved one in sensory-rich activities. Baking festive treats, listening to festive music, or creating simple crafts can stimulate memories and create joyful moments. Local community centers in Nantwich and Alsager often offer dementia-friendly events, which can provide social interaction in a supportive environment. The Thursday Club in Nantwich, and the Afternoon Club in Crewe are very dementia friendly groups and always have activities happening.

5. Watch for sundowning

Sundowning, a phenomenon where confusion and agitation worsen as daylight fades, can be more prominent in winter. Combat this by minimizing evening stimulation, using blackout curtains to block outside lights, and keeping spaces calm. Playing soothing music or offering a warm drink can help ease transitions to bedtime.

6. Seek local support

Crewe, Nantwich, Alsager, and Sandbach have numerous resources for carers. Dementia-friendly groups, such as those run by local charities or the Alzheimer's Society, offer advice, companionship, and activities.

Some Local Groups to consider:

Nantwich – Thursday Club, every Thursday at St Marys Parish Hall, Church Walk, Nantwich, CW5 5RG

Nantwich – Seniors Social Café, 1st Monday of each month 1.30-2.30pm at M & S Café, Nantwich.

Sandbach – Bring me Sunshine, 10th December 1.30-2.45pm at Sandbach Library

Alsager – Alsager Memory Café, 10.30am-12.30pm last Friday of each month at Alsager Library

Additionally, some community centre's and Home Care providers offer respite care, allowing you to take breaks while ensuring your loved one is safe.

If you need further support, reach out to dementia services in your area or consult your GP for tailored advice.

For additional support about any of the points above or for information about care services please call 01270 257347, visit our website here or pop into our Nantwich Office: Old Penny Bank, 39 Welsh Row, Nantwich CW5 5EW.

For additional support about any of the points above or for information about care services please call 01270 257347, visit our website here or pop into our Nantwich Office: Old Penny Bank, 39 Welsh Row, Nantwich CW5 5EW.

Right at Home South & Mid Cheshire continues to bridge the gap between exceptional caregiving and meaningful connections, ensuring ever client receives not just care but genuine compassion and love. 

Right at Home South Cheshire and Mid Cheshire provides domiciliary care and support to people living in their own homes.   

Services range from companionship, home help and personal care to specialist dementia care and live-in care services.   

Sandbach Nub News and Alsager Nub News are proud that Right at Home South Cheshire is a sponsor of our news service.    

It is thanks to the generosity of organisations like Right at Home South Cheshire that we can continue our mission to revive local news, both in Sandbach, Alsager and across the UK. 

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