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Supporting People Living with Dementia During Halloween While Halloween can be a fun and festive time for many, it can present unique challenges for people living with dementia. The sudden changes in environment — from decorations and costumes to unfamiliar sounds and social interactions — may lead to increased confusion, anxiety, or distress. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind: 🧠 Confusion & Disorientation Halloween brings unusual sights and sounds, such as costumes, animated decorations, and themed music. These can be disorienting and may heighten feelings of anxiety or fear. 🎭 Strangers & Social Interactions For those who struggle to recognise familiar faces, engaging with costumed individuals can be unsettling and may lead to withdrawal or distress. 🚶‍♂️ Impacts on Mobility Decorations like hanging spiders, wires, or floor props can become physical hazards, especially for individuals with mobility issues who may feel unsure navigating altered spaces. 🔊 Overstimulation Loud music, sound effects, and busy environments can easily overwhelm someone with dementia, leading to agitation or confusion. 🏠 Changes in Routine & Environment Quick changes to the layout or appearance of a care home — such as sudden decorations — can disrupt a person’s sense of familiarity and make it harder for them to understand where they are. Recommendations for a Dementia-Friendly Halloween To ensure Halloween remains safe and inclusive, consider the following approaches: 🍂 Use autumnal decorations Opt for seasonal, non-threatening décor that supports orientation and creates a calming atmosphere. 🕯️ Create a calm environment Limit exposure to loud noises, flashing lights, and crowded spaces to reduce overstimulation. 🕰️ Maintain daily routines Keeping familiar schedules helps provide stability and reassurance. 🤝 Monitor interactions If Halloween activities are planned, stay close to individuals with dementia, observe their responses, and offer gentle reassurance as needed. 💙 Promote care, not fear Above all, foster an environment rooted in empathy, understanding, and comfort — where care takes precedence over spectacle. By making thoughtful adjustments, we can ensure Halloween is a positive experience for everyone — especially those living with dementia.

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