New Years can be a big celebration for some, but this can bring complications for others.
These celebration times can add more pressure when you are caring for someone. New Years celebrations often include fireworks, when caring for a person with dementia this can confuse, scare or trigger unwanted past memories. Here are some ideas of how to support someone with dementia during fireworks.
➡ Plan Ahead
Explain to the person you care for what will be happening and gauge how they react. Find out what neighbours are doing. If there are going to big displays nearby it may be worth going somewhere else for the evening.
➡ Low Noise Displays
There are some professional low noise displays, which could help someone who is triggered by loud bangs and noise.
➡ Stay Comfortable
Check that there aren’t too many people, too much activity, sudden movements or an uncomfortable environment. If it does get too much, it’s good to be ready to go home, move to a quieter area or go inside.
➡ Go Alternative
You don’t have to attend fireworks displays to join in the celebrations of New Years. There are many televised displays that can be enjoyed in the safety of your own home, the sound can be turned down and music can be played instead.
➡ Avoid Fireworks Completely
Fireworks are not for everyone and that’s fine. If the person you care for gets distressed by the noise or bright flashes, think about alternative activities you can enjoy together such as films, audiobooks or music.
The Alzheimer’s Society have lots of information on their website about supporting a person with dementia, during different celebrations, through daily life and real-life stories.
*These ideas have been written with caring for someone with dementia in mind, but they could also help someone how suffers with PTSD and also a neurodivergent person.
The National Autistic Society have a great article with tips on supporting an autistic person during bonfire night and fireworks.
Our Serving Suffolk Families team have also pulled together an informative article on tips on supporting veteran’s with PTSD who are affected by fireworks.
