Planning Can Help Avoid Holiday Stress

Visits with family and friends put additional strain on people with dementia and their caregivers during the holidays. Making changes like slowing down the pace of activities will help make the holidays more enjoyable for everyone.

If you’re caring for a relative with Alzheimer’s at home, host quiet, slow-paced gatherings. Television, conversation and meal preparation may make the environment noisy or overstimulating. To avoid disorientation, tone down blinking lights and large decorative displays. Avoid candles and decorations such as artificial fruits that could be mistaken for edible treats.

Involve the person with the disease in holiday preparations to the extent they are comfortable. For example, when you bake, let your relative measure flour or stir batter, or simply watch you work. Open holiday cards and wrap gifts together.

Caregivers also must consider their needs during this often-stressful time of year — you can’t do it all, so don’t try. Bake fewer cookies or ask others to help with meals. Let family members and friends help with cleaning, writing cards and shopping for gifts. Ask if one of your children or a close friend can stay with your loved one while you do something fun, such as go to a holiday party.

If the person with dementia lives in a long-term care setting, celebrate there. For many people with Alzheimer’s, a change of environment — even a visit home — may cause anxiety. Instead of creating a disruption, consider holding a small family celebration at the facility.

Arrange for a few family members to visit on different days. Two or three familiar faces at a time are likely to be welcome, but more than that may be confusing. Schedule visits at his or her best time of day, as people with Alzheimer’s often tire easily.

You can’t control the progress of Alzheimer’s, but by planning and setting firm boundaries, you can avoid needless holiday stress and enjoy the warmth of the season.

For other ideas and support, please contact our 24-hour Helpline at 800-272-3900 or click here for more information on planning for the holidays.

Previous | Next