Bonfire Night is an exciting time for many, filled with fireworks, light displays and community celebrations. But for people living with dementia, fireworks night can sometimes bring feelings of confusion, distress or anxiety.
Understanding how dementia can be impacted by fireworks can help you plan ahead and make the evening calmer, safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
Here are some helpful tips for supporting someone with dementia on fireworks night.
Do fireworks affect dementia?
Fireworks are loud, unpredictable, and often accompanied by bright flashes of light, all of which can be overwhelming for someone living with dementia.
The sudden noises can trigger confusion or fear, particularly if the person doesn’t understand where the sounds are coming from. For some, fireworks may even evoke difficult memories or disrupt normal evening routines, making it harder to rest or feel settled.
Although there’s no direct clinical evidence that fireworks affect dementia symptoms long-term, the sensory overload can temporarily heighten confusion, anxiety or increase distress.
While not everyone with dementia reacts in the same way, it’s important to recognise that sensory changes and reduced ability to process noise or light can make Bonfire Night challenging.
By planning ahead, you can help reduce these triggers and make Bonfire Night a positive experience:
1. Talk about it in advance
Where possible, prepare your loved one for the evening ahead. Gently explain that there may be fireworks or loud noises in the area and that they are part of a celebration.
Using reassuring language, photos or memories from past Bonfire Nights may help them understand what’s happening and feel more comfortable.
In a care home, the team will also take time to explain that there may be local displays and support residents throughout the evening.
2. Create a calm, comfortable space
If fireworks are likely to be heard nearby, try to create a peaceful environment indoors. Close curtains, switch on soft lighting and play gentle background music to muffle the noise. Try not to leave the person alone as the presence of somebody else can be reassuring and comforting.
Providing comfort items such as a favourite blanket, pet, or activity can help reduce anxiety and create a sense of safety. At HC-One, our care teams take similar steps, offering quiet rooms, soothing activities and companionship to help residents feel settled during community celebrations. Playing favourite music might help to detract from outside noise.
3. Maintain familiar routines
Routine can be very reassuring for someone living with dementia. Keeping regular mealtimes, bedtime, and evening activities helps signal that everything is normal and safe, even if there are unusual noises outside.
If you know fireworks are planned nearby, try to avoid making other changes that day, such as moving furniture or altering daily schedules, as too many adjustments can increase confusion.
4. Consider where to watch (or not watch)
Some people with dementia enjoy the visual spectacle of fireworks when supported in a safe, quiet setting. Others may find it distressing.
If you decide to watch, choose a spot with minimal noise and avoid large, crowded events. Many care homes and families opt for indoor activities instead, such as crafts, watching a gentle fireworks video, or enjoying warm drinks and baked treats together.
At HC-One, homes often celebrate Bonfire Night with themed decorations and quiet, sensory-friendly activities that bring joy without overwhelming residents.
5. Check for signs of distress
During fireworks night, keep an eye out for changes in mood or behaviour. Restlessness, covering ears, pacing or withdrawing may all be signs of discomfort.
If the person living with dementia seems unsettled, support them to find a quieter space, offer reassurance, and stay close by. Kindness, patience and calm communication can make a big difference.
Kindness and comfort with HC-One
At HC-One, we understand how celebrations like Bonfire Night can impact people living with dementia. Across our care homes, our experienced teams create calm, supportive environments where residents can take part in activities at their own pace, ensuring that everyone feels safe, included and cared for.
If you’re looking for support for someone living with dementia, our kind and compassionate care teams are here to help.
Learn more about dementia care at HC-One or to arrange a visit, please search for a care home near you or contact us.