Caregiver Tips for the Holidays
The holidays are full of special memories for a person with dementia and their family. Creating moments that are both familiar and reassuring for a person with dementia can help everyone feel a sense of belonging.
While participating in holiday celebrations can be comforting they may also cause anxiety and confusion for the person living with dementia. Keep in mind that the person may enjoy some activities more than others.
The National Institute on Aging recommends the following when preparing for holiday guests and events:
- Show the person photos of guests a week before their arrival. Explain who the visitor is while showing the picture.
- Arrange phone calls for the person with visitors before the event. The call will give visitors an idea of what to expect and give the person with Alzheimer’s an opportunity to become familiar with the visitor.
- Keep the person’s routine as close to normal as possible. Changes in routine may confuse or frustrate the person with Alzheimer’s.
- Ensure the person gets adequate rest. Proper rest can help to prevent fatigue during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
Visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/holiday-hints-alzheimers-caregivers?utm_source=nia-eblast&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=caregiving-20211202 for more tips.
To hear from other caregivers about how they handle the holidays register for the Essentials of Caregiving: Planning for the Holiday on December 9th.
Register using this link: https://utcaregivers.org/events/planning-for-the-holidays/