Making Halloween S.A.F.E.R. for Individuals With Dementia

Frightful sights, scary sounds and costumed strangers might be Halloween traditions, but they can be unsettling for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses. With Oct. 31 approaching, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is offering tips to make Halloween S.A.F.E.R. for loved ones living with dementia.

“Halloween imagery and sounds—from ghosts and monsters to sudden noises and flashing lights—can be confusing or frightening for someone living with dementia symptoms,” said Jennifer Reeder, AFA’s senior director of educational & social services. “By planning ahead and adapting the festivities to their loved one’s needs and preferences, caregivers can help reduce stress, promote safety and ensure everyone can enjoy the season in a way that feels comfortable.”

AFA recommends the following tips for family caregivers for a S.A.F.E.R. Halloween:

• Simplify decorations. Choose simple, nonthreatening decorations. Avoid items that scream, speak unexpectedly or feature flashing or flickering lights. Do not display realistic-looking skeletons, monsters and other spooky figures that could frighten or cause confusion. Loud sounds and startling visual effects are distressing and could cause wandering. Instead, feature soothing seasonal decorations: pumpkins, apples and fall leaves. 

• Adapt activities to your loved one’s capabilities and interests. Focus on activities that are enjoyable and feasible. You might decorate pumpkins together, gather leaves or look through old family photos from former Halloweens. Try watching a gentle, appealing, seasonal program. Offer familiar snacks or other treats that align with their dietary needs and preferences and also celebrate the holiday. Make cookies and decorate them with orange-colored frosting or carve a pumpkin face together.

• Foster a calm environment. Halloween brings increased noise and new activities and the sight of unfamiliar faces. If your loved one becomes anxious or agitated, offer reassurance and redirect them to a soothing activity. Playing soothing music, reading together or engaging in another quiet pastime can foster engagement and feelings of safety and comfort.

• Ensure supervision during trick-or-treating. Frequent doorbell rings and visits from costumed strangers can confuse or frighten someone living with dementia. Do not leave your loved one alone to distribute candy or answer the door. If they want to participate, have someone stay with them for support. Alternatively, consider visiting a relative or friend’s home where they can enjoy the festivities in a familiar, supervised setting. Never invite unfamiliar visitors into the home.

• Retain adequate lighting for safety. Keep indoor and outdoor areas well lit to reduce confusion, improve visibility and make the home appear clearly occupied. If you prefer not to answer the door, put a bowl of candy outside with a “please take one” sign if this is safe and appropriate for your home and neighborhood.

Caregivers should remember that every person living with dementia is different. The best approach is to follow a loved one’s preferences, to watch for signs of discomfort and to adjust activities as needed. A quieter, simpler celebration will help everyone enjoy the holiday and have greater peace of mind.

Families who have questions about caring for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease can contact AFA’s Helpline by phone (866) 232-8484, text message (646) 586-5283 or webchat alzfdn.org to speak with a licensed social worker. The helpline is open seven days a week.