Combating Holiday Isolation: Initiative Aims to Make Gatherings Inclusive for Those Living with Dementia

NEW YORK, NY – November 18, 2025

A Season for Connection, A Challenge for Many

The holiday season, often depicted as a time of joyful connection, can be particularly isolating for the over 7.2 million Americans currently living with Alzheimer's disease or other dementias. Recognizing this, USAging is launching ‘Dementia Friendsgiving,’ a nationwide campaign aimed at making holiday gatherings more inclusive and supportive for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. The initiative isn’t simply about attending events; it’s about adapting them to ensure everyone feels welcome, understood, and valued.

“The holidays can be a stressful time for families, and that stress is amplified when a loved one is living with dementia,” explains a caregiver involved in piloting the program. “Simple changes to how we approach gatherings can make a huge difference in reducing anxiety and fostering a sense of belonging.”

Beyond Awareness: Building Dementia-Friendly Communities

‘Dementia Friendsgiving’ is part of a larger movement toward creating dementia-friendly communities across the United States, spearheaded by Dementia Friendly America (DFA), an initiative administered by USAging. DFA currently supports over 400 communities in 43 states, working to increase awareness, reduce stigma, and provide resources for individuals with dementia and their families. However, the effort extends beyond mere awareness. It’s about practical changes in how communities operate, from training local businesses to modifying public spaces to better accommodate individuals with cognitive impairment.

“We’re seeing a shift in how communities approach dementia,” notes a community organizer in Massachusetts. “It’s no longer just about providing care; it’s about creating environments where people with dementia can continue to live full and meaningful lives.” This includes initiatives like memory cafes, dementia-friendly walking groups, and art programs designed to engage individuals with dementia in social and creative activities.

The growing number of individuals living with dementia underscores the urgency of these efforts. Projections indicate that the number of Americans with Alzheimer’s is expected to nearly double by 2060, placing an increasing strain on families and healthcare systems. Furthermore, the lifetime risk of developing dementia is higher than previously estimated, impacting nearly 42% of adults over 55.

The Toolkit for Inclusive Gatherings

At the heart of the ‘Dementia Friendsgiving’ campaign is a comprehensive toolkit designed to guide hosts in creating inclusive gatherings. While specific details of the toolkit's accessibility features are still under evaluation, the resource aims to provide practical advice on modifying environments, communication strategies, and activity adaptations.

Recommendations include reducing background noise, providing clear and simple instructions, offering visual cues, and encouraging reminiscing. The toolkit also emphasizes the importance of person-centered care, tailoring activities to individual preferences and abilities.

“It’s about remembering that everyone has something to contribute,” says Don Kent, a spokesperson for the campaign and a person living with Lewy Body Dementia. “Dementia doesn’t diminish a person’s value or their desire to connect with others. It just means we need to be more mindful of how we approach interactions.” Kent’s advocacy work highlights the importance of lived experience in shaping dementia-friendly initiatives. He emphasizes that individuals with dementia are not simply recipients of care but active partners in creating supportive communities.

Creating a truly inclusive environment, however, goes beyond simply modifying the physical space. It requires a shift in mindset, challenging negative stereotypes and fostering empathy and understanding. Caregivers often report that one of the biggest challenges is dealing with societal stigma and the lack of awareness among family and friends.

“People don’t always know how to react when they see someone with dementia,” shares a family member participating in the DFA network. “They may feel awkward or uncomfortable, and they may avoid interacting altogether. It’s important to educate people and help them understand that dementia is not something to be feared.”

By promoting education and fostering open communication, the ‘Dementia Friendsgiving’ campaign hopes to create a ripple effect, encouraging more communities to embrace inclusivity and support individuals living with dementia and their families. The initiative serves as a reminder that even small gestures can make a big difference in fostering a sense of belonging and creating a more compassionate society.