Christmas is usually all about warmth, family catch-ups, and a table full of food, but it can also be one of the few times a year when everyone sees older relatives up close for several days. In that familiar bustle, small changes can stand out, especially during moments that require planning and multitasking. Health experts note that difficulties with complex everyday tasks can sometimes be an early sign of dementia. A report in the Daily Express highlighted how holiday routines may reveal problems that are easier to miss during quick visits.
Dementia is linked to a gradual decline in brain function, and the number of people living with it continues to grow. In the UK, more than 982,000 people are currently affected, and projections suggest the figure could approach 1.4 million by 2040. While there is still no cure, early recognition can help families seek support sooner and potentially slow progression with the right care plan. It can also make a huge difference in reducing stress for both the person experiencing symptoms and the people around them.
One of the most telling moments can be the big Christmas meal, because it demands timing, sequencing, and attention across many steps at once. Professor Alistair Burns, who previously served as England’s national clinical director for dementia and older people’s mental health, warned that even something as simple as forgetting to turn on the oven while preparing a turkey could be a red flag. It is not about a single mistake in a busy kitchen, but a pattern of confusion that is out of character. Loved ones might forget key side dishes, repeat the same steps, or cook components in an odd order that does not make sense for the meal.
Alzheimer’s Research UK also drew attention to holiday warning signs through a TikTok campaign called Santa Forgot. In a video, Katie from the organization’s support team described how a person might mix up presents, label gifts for the wrong person, or seem uncertain about who is meant to receive them. Another concern is becoming disoriented in places that should feel routine, such as a relative’s home visited many times before. These moments can be brushed off as tiredness, yet repeated confusion is worth noticing.
Beyond holiday-specific mix-ups, early signs can include forgetting recent events, names, faces, or newly learned information, and repeatedly asking the same questions or using the same phrases. Some people begin putting everyday items in unusual places and then cannot retrace their steps. Others struggle to find the right words, follow conversations, or understand the meaning of familiar terms. Mood and behavior changes can also appear, including low mood, anxiety, irritability, or agitation that seems unusual for them, and a medical check-in is recommended if concerns persist.
Have you ever noticed small changes in a loved one’s memory or behavior during the holidays, and how did you handle it in the moment? Share your thoughts in the comments.
