Advice

How to support a person with dementia at Easter

Easter and Lent

Easter is a very important part of the Christian calendar, where Christian people celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This year, Easter starts on Friday 18 April 2025 and ends on Monday 21 April 2025.

Globally, Easter is celebrated at different times and in different ways. For example, in some parts of Eastern Europe people throw water over each other, and in parts of the Caribbean people fly kites. If you are supporting a person with dementia, talk to them about any traditions they have and how these might need to be adapted.

Lent starts on Ash Wednesday, and is the 40-day period where Christian people fast or give something up to remember Jesus Christ fasting in the desert before the crucifixion. Some people with dementia may want to give up food or a specific activity - such as watching a certain TV programme - during this period.  

Bear in mind that the person may need to do things differently from previous years. For example, their GP may advise that they should not fast for medical reasons. You may also need to remind the person during Lent what they have chosen to give up.

1. Keep things familiar

Too many changes to the person’s routine can be confusing and distressing. Try to keep activities low-key and meals as close to their usual time as possible.

It is also important to make sure the person gets enough rest and sleep.

Having lots of people in the home at once can be overwhelming so consider arranging visits so there are less people around together.

2. Easter activities for people with dementia

Take part in activities such as decorating Easter eggs, writing Easter cards, or making Easter foods such as simnel cake. If the person has always enjoyed Easter egg hunts, consider adapting this with brightly coloured eggs in slightly easier locations.

Smells, sounds and flavours may act as a ‘reminiscence tool' for someone with dementia, evoking memories from previous years.

As with many traditions, they can evoke sad memories – for example of people who have since died - so be aware and prepared to change activities if necessary.

3. Consider dementia-friendly services

Some churches may offer dementia-friendly services. These may be shorter than normal services, and could have more relaxed rules of conduct. 

This can give families the opportunity to celebrate together and share stories about past Easter services.

If a person is unable to travel, look for ways to celebrate in their own home. This may involve watching Easter celebrations on television or online, for example, or playing hymns they enjoy.

4. Have a quiet area or room

If lots of people come over at once, try to designate one room or space in the home a ‘quiet area’ where your loved one can relax without loud noise. 

Some people may want to use headphones to listen to music and block out the noise. This will allow the person to enjoy the celebrations at their own pace.

5. Think about food and mealtimes

Many Easter celebrations involve specific types of food, from hot cross buns or dyed boiled eggs to a full roast dinner.  

Be mindful of what the person usually eats – a full plate can be daunting for someone who has difficulties with eating. If the person does not usually have a plate of food, consider smaller portions or finger foods instead. 

We've also got lots more general tips to help with eating and drinking.

6. Plan ahead 

Think about minimising situations where the person with dementia is put on the spot to remember names. Consider giving a gentle reminder each time a new person arrives, or ask people to introduce themselves. Speaking with family members in advance, especially younger children, may help avoid embarrassing moments.

If the person with dementia is living in a care home, ask the home in advance what their plans are for the Easter weekend. They may have restrictions on visiting times or amount of people allowed at once.