If you have a friend or loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, it doesn’t mean your holiday festivities have to be any less exciting. While you may have to alter the ways you celebrate and take some extra measures to ensure your loved one is safe and comfortable, there are still numerous great activities that the entire family can enjoy. With Thanksgiving around the corner and the other winter holidays in view, here are five tips for celebrating the season for those caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease:
1. Don’t Overwhelm Yourself
The Alzheimer’s Association advises adjusting your expectations this holiday season when providing Alzheimer’s care. Getting the entire family together can be stressful, sorting out sleeping arrangements, cooking large meals, and coordinating everyone’s plans. Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to stick to a normal holiday schedule. Prioritize the events that matter most, and politely explain to others that visiting in person may not be possible this year. If you usually take charge of Thanksgiving, consider finding out if anyone else wants to host or ask for help from others.
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2. Keep Decorations Simple
According to the Mayo Clinic, too many decorations may cause overstimulation. For example, decorations that are easily breakable, resemble food, make loud noises, or flash on and off may cause disorientation. Safety hazards such as lit candles should also be avoided. Avoid loud music during meals or other social occasions so there isn’t too much background noise. This doesn’t mean you can’t create a well-decorated atmosphere at home; rather, you need to be cognizant of what decorations you choose to use.
3. Celebrate in a Familiar Setting
Loud and busy settings such as a shopping mall or crowded department store may cause disorientation and anxiety. Celebrate the holidays in a familiar, quiet setting. If you get invited out for a local holiday event, consider declining and instead inviting your friends and family to come over. That way, the person you care for can see the people they care about in a comfortable setting.
4. Help Encourage Participation
The person you assist can and should still get involved in the holiday festivities! Ask for help wrapping gifts, making baked goods, preparing a holiday newsletter, or other seasonal activities. Watch your favorite holiday movies together with other friends and families. Use your instincts as a caregiver to determine what activities are safe. This can be especially pertinent in the kitchen when preparing holiday meals.
Celebrate the holiday season by watching classic movies with your loved one.
5. Find out What’s Happening in the Assisted Living Community
If you help care for a friend or loved one in an assisted living memory care community, find out what events are taking place there and get involved. Consider bringing along a snack or dish that is easily shareable for the person and others in their living facilities. While you’re there, consider getting others involved in familiar activities such as singing seasonal songs.
