The holiday season is a time of rejoicing and blessing. Unfortunately, this time of year can also be stressful for some. And for those with ;Alzheimer's disease ;or related dementia, it can be a very confusing season.
Whether you’re staying home, traveling or gathering virtually, the extra hustle and bustle can still cause stress for people with memory loss. These tips can make the holidays less overwhelming and more joyful for you and your loved one.
- Keep your loved one’s schedule as close to normal as possible. ;Routines, predictability and structure are important. It’s good to make sure you plan ahead of a holiday celebration or activities since things are normally busier during the holidays.
- Manage your own expectations. ;Adjust your expectations for how interactions will go. If conflict arises, ask yourself, “Is this a big deal?” Go with the flow and have patience with your loved one.
- Pay close attention to your loved one. ;Monitor their reactions and limit timeframes of gatherings based on their responses. If a gathering is going well, do not feel the need to cut the time short. On the other hand, if a gathering is not going as expected, it’s okay to step away and remove your loved one from the situation.
- Think about time of day. ;Earlier in the day, people tend to function better because they are less tired. When possible, try to avoid evenings for holiday events.
- Educate other guests to be sensitive to the disease. ;Help guests understand ahead of time that they may see or hear things they didn’t anticipate. Remind them not to take things personally. Behaviors are a result of the disease process and rarely a reflection of anything someone has done.
- Be thoughtful and careful with the gifts you choose. ;Items such as scrapbooks, a favorite movie or comfy clothing make great gifts. Avoid purchasing electronics, appliances, or anything that may not be used safely or effectively.
- Don’t be too hard on yourself. ;As a caregiver or loved one of a person with Alzheimer's or dementia, you will want to set aside time for yourself, even if it’s just walking around the block, reading your favorite book or spending a few minutes doing an activity you enjoy.
When speaking to people with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, introduce yourself every time you talk to them. Speak clearly and concisely. Educate your holiday guests and family and friends to do the same.
Different surroundings can be uncomfortable for anyone, especially someone who has Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. As much as possible, seek the familiar. The more you follow past holiday routines, the more comfortable a person with Alzheimer’s will be.
Do you have a loved one struggling with memory issues? We can help.
