Dementia and the Holiday Season
 As we approach the holiday season, it is important to remember that older adults with dementia may experience the holidays differently. Below are some tips to make sure the holidays are a time of peace and joy for all!
-
It's the Dementia Talking: Remember that dementia may bring changes to someone’s personality, causing them to say or do things they wouldn’t have normally done. This is not a reflection of your relationship with your loved one or how much they care about you. These changes are related to the disease process in the brain.
-
Routine: Try to maintain your loved one’s routine throughout the holiday season. While this may be difficult, changes to routine can increase confusion and agitation.
-
Needing a Quiet Space: Lights and noises may be more overwhelming for your loved one with dementia. Make sure there is space for them to have some quiet time during the celebrations if needed.
-
Validate: Avoid correcting your loved one if they say something that isn’t correct, such as asking about a family member that is no longer living. Instead of focusing on facts, validate their emotions.
-
Finding Meaning and Purpose: Everyone wants to feel needed and useful! Find ways for your loved to take part in the holiday preparations such as folding napkins or mixing cookie batter. You may even enlist them in some volunteering such as sorting can goods for a food drive or making fleece tie blankets for charity.
-
Sharing Memories: Share fond memories and reminisce! Looking at photo albums or listening to classic holiday songs can be a great way to bring back old memories!
-
Stay Connected: Keep in touch outside the holiday season! Older adults often feel socially isolated, and if all the attention of the holidays remains exclusive to the holidays, that can send a negative message. Visit when you can, and if not, call or video chat! Send letters, postcards, or gifts so they have physical reminders of the care you have for them!
RAFT wishes you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season!
|
