The holiday season is filled with traditions, gatherings, and the hope for meaningful moments. However, for dementia care partners, this season can also bring added stress and emotional weight. To help navigate the season with mindfulness and strength, here are eight powerful affirmations to guide you and provide comfort during this time.
1. "Setting boundaries is an act of love for both myself and my loved one. I deserve balance and rest."
The holidays can come with expectations that stretch us thin. It’s okay to take a step back and remember that setting boundaries is an act of love—not just for yourself but also for the well-being of your loved one. When you respect your own limits, you’re creating the space for meaningful moments without the overwhelm.
2. "I give myself permission to step away and recharge, knowing this will help me stay compassionate and patient."
If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my 11 years as a professional working in the dementia care space, it’s that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking time to pause and recharge isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Whether it’s a quiet cup of tea, a phone call with a friend, or a few minutes of deep breathing, those moments will help you come back to your loved one with renewed patience.
3. "I choose presence over perfection. The moments we share matter more than how they look."
We’ve all been caught up in the picture-perfect holiday scenes, but what truly matters is being present. Embrace the beauty of being together, imperfections and all.
4. "It's ok to say 'no' to protect my energy and create a peaceful environment for my loved one and myself."
There’s strength in knowing your limits. Maybe it means skipping a big event or choosing a quiet evening at home. Saying ‘no’ when you need to protects your energy and creates a sense of calm for everyone involved. Remember, you’re allowed to put your well-being first.
5. "I will focus on what I can do and release what I can't, remembering that my peace matters, too."
In the flurry of holiday expectations, it’s easy to feel stretched beyond what’s reasonable. I often remind care partners to do what they can and let go of what’s beyond their reach. Your peace is just as important as any holiday tradition—it’s what keeps you grounded.
6. "Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. I deserve support as much as I give it."
After years of coaching and personal experiences, I know how difficult it can be to ask for help. But here’s the truth: asking for help doesn’t make you less capable; it makes you wise. You deserve support as much as you offer it. Whether it’s a friend, a family member, or a local community group—let them share in the care.
7. "I will listen to my limits and adjust plans without guilt, understanding that flexibility keeps us calmer."
Plans are just that—plans. If things need to shift to accommodate how you or your loved one feels, that’s okay. I once helped a family simplify their gathering to just a few close friends, and it turned out to be their most memorable holiday yet. Flexibility isn’t just practical; it’s necessary for everyone’s peace.
8. "I will remind myself that seeking help is an act of love that benefits us both."
Never forget that reaching out for support isn’t just for you—it benefits your loved one, too. By allowing others to assist, you ensure a nurturing and balanced environment for both of you. Seeking help reflects your commitment to the best care possible.
Are you navigating the holidays and trying trying to determine plans with your loved one living with dementia? Be sure to checkout my blog post: Navigating the Holidays with Loved Ones Living with Dementia: 11 Tips for Managing Gatherings and Reducing Overhwhelm.
Want your own copy to keep close? Click the button below to download your own free Holiday affirmations and keep these words nearby whenever you need a moment of calm or a reminder to pause and breathe. May these affirmations bring you comfort and help you embrace each moment this holiday season.
By: Jessie Hillock, M.A., SLP, CDP
Dementia Navigation Coach & Consultant
Certified Dementia Practitioner
Background as a Speech-Language Pathologist
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Jessie works with families facing memory loss and cognitive challenges across the United States as the owner and founder of The Memory Compass. She specializes in dementia care, is a certified dementia practitioner, and has a background in geriatric speech-language pathologist. Jessie helps families navigate dementia challenges through memory loss navigation consultations and dementia coaching. Through these sessions, Jessie equips families with creating solutions to their challenges, saves them time and energy, and reduces the overwhelm by developing their own individualized action plans for now and proactively for the future.
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