The holidays are a time for family, reunion, and celebration. For families coping with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, the holidays can be stressful. Not to fear because with some planning and adjustments, your celebrations can still be joyful occasions. Here are 5 ideas that may help.
If you can, limit the guest list only to close family members and friends. This will help maintain a calmer environment and reduce the amount of people your loved one has to track.
Remembering names can be tough for someone with Alzheimer’s but that shouldn’t prevent them from enjoying holiday parties. Prepare festive name badges for everyone in attendance so that someone with dementia can identify everyone.
Focus on the positive rather than becoming overwhelmed by the negative will help you cope and celebrate. Can remember the past without getting too sad about what’s been lost. Don’t get too hung up on the way things “used to be” and instead, try to be grateful for what’s still there.
You’re allowed to say no. You don’t have to accept every holiday party invite or host gatherings if you don’t feel up to it. A happy holiday is one where your loved one with dementia is comfortable and if that means a quiet night in with a low-key gift exchange, so be it.
If you decide to partake in holiday festivities parties, be sure to designate an area of the house you’re in as a quiet room where your loved one with Alzheimer’s can go to relax if things become too overwhelming. Perhaps close the door to a bedroom and have it available at all times just in case the PWD needs a quiet space.
If you or a loved one is living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, consider learning more about Asclepes’ research studies. Call 1-844-283-3649 or click here for more information.