Mother’s Day with Dementia: Finding Connection in Familiar Routines

Mother’s Day is a time to honour the women who raised us, cared for us, and loved us through life’s changes. But for caregivers of mums living with dementia, it can also bring up complicated emotions — moments of grief, longing, and questions of how to celebrate when memories are fading.

Still, connection is possible — not always through words, but through shared routines, quiet gestures, and familiar comforts.

🖼️ Bring Back the Old Photos

Looking through old photo albums or videos can awaken memories, even when names and dates are lost. If your mum responds to visuals, sit beside her and gently narrate the moments. Focus on emotions — laughter, love, or stories she used to tell. These glimpses of the past can spark warmth and presence in the moment.

🎶 Play Her Favourite Songs

Music has a remarkable way of reaching the parts of the brain untouched by dementia. Whether it’s Teresa Teng classics, soft Hokkien ballads, or songs from her youth, hearing a familiar tune might bring her comfort — and even a smile or hum. Create a playlist for her or dance together gently in the living room.

🥣 Share a Familiar Meal

Food is deeply emotional — it ties us to home, heritage, and memory. A bowl of soft pumpkin porridge or red bean soup may bring back a sense of comfort and identity. At GentleFoods®, we offer texture-modified versions of well-loved dishes so you can enjoy a meaningful meal together, even with swallowing difficulties.

Try our:

• 🍚 Bento with minced chicken or fish
• 🍵 Sweet soups like red bean or green bean purée
• 🍎 Fruits purée like apple longan or honey lemon, rich in vitamin C
• 🍰 Soft cakes and nutritious desserts — easy to eat, comforting to share

🌸 Keep the Day Simple

A quiet day is often best. Sit outside if the weather is kind, hold her hand, or simply be present. Celebrate in ways that feel natural to her routine — what matters is not the grandeur, but the care behind it.

💞 It's Still Mother’s Day

Even if your mum no longer remembers dates or names, the love she gave shaped who you are. This Mother’s Day, honour that love in small, gentle ways. And if you’re the caregiver — the daughter, the wife, or the helper — know that your presence matters more than you think.

Gentle Support for Every Stage
At GentleFoods®, we’re here to support caregivers like you with meals that meet IDDSI standards and are nourishing, safe, and made with love. Because even with dementia, every bite can carry a memory — and every meal can be a moment of connection.

🌷 Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful and meaningful Mother’s Day.