The holiday season can be a stressful time for everyone – but especially for them Living with dementiaAs well as their caregivers and loved ones.
Statistics show that an estimated 6.7 million people over the age of 65 in the United States suffer from Alzheimer's disease, the most common type of dementia.
Meanwhile, nearly 90% of adults in the United States report this You suffer from stress During the holiday season, according to the American Psychological Association.
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“the Holiday season “It can be overwhelming and overwhelming for those living with dementia, as well as a stressful time for the family caregivers who care for them every day,” said Jessica Corona Irwin, a registered nurse and certified dementia practitioner at Remo Health. Virtual Dementia Care Company.
“One-on-one interactions can be easier than larger group conversations, as the individual feels included and valued,” one expert said. (Istock)
“One reason for this is that the holiday season often involves changes in daily routines,” she told Fox News Digital. “People with dementia often need to maintain a daily routine. This consistency can help them feel more secure and less anxious.”
Many experts shared the following tips to help dementia patients: Family members And caregivers enjoy a smooth, low-stress holiday.
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1. Prepare family and friends in advance
Kate Granigan, MD, president of the board of directors of Life Care for the Aging in Boston, Massachusetts, recommends explaining any changes in your loved one's behavior, memory or communication before holiday gatherings, especially if others are not familiar with dementia.
“A little preparation and understanding helps create a more positive atmosphere.”
“Encourage visitors to be patient, avoid correcting or interrupting, and give your loved one time to express themselves,” she suggested on Fox News Digital.
“A little preparation and understanding helps create a more positive atmosphere.”
2. Stay as still as possible
It's important to try to keep mealtimes, bedtimes, and other daily activities around the same times during the holiday season, according to the Corona Irwin website.
“If changes are necessary, make them gradual and communicate them clearly,” she advised.
One expert recommended engaging your loved one in familiar traditions, such as turning cookie dough or singing familiar songs, to “spark joy and a sense of inclusion.” (Istock)
“For example, if you plan to eat the holiday meal at a different time, one tip is to start changing your usual meal time a few days in advance to help your loved ones adjust smoothly.”
3. Simplify the environment
It's best to keep a dementia patient's environment as simple as possible, according to Dr. Tina Sadarangani, a board-certified professor at New York University. Geriatric nursefounder of CareMobi and The Enlightened Caregiver.
“Stick to familiar, nostalgic motifs, and avoid bright lights or loud sounds that may be overly stimulating,” she suggested.
Corona Irwin said the theme of simplicity should extend to activities.
“Prioritize simple, enjoyable activities, such as listening to favorite holiday music, looking at old family photos, or engaging in gentle sensory activities,” she suggested.
“These things can be very comforting and bring happiness without causing stress.”
4. Communicate clearly and patiently
For many individuals with dementia, it can be difficult to follow conversations, especially when the environment is very crowded and noisy, according to Dr. Michelle Nealon, president of The Chicago School, a nonprofit graduate school that focuses on psychology and related behavioral sciences. .
When choosing gifts for someone with dementia, experts suggest considering their comfort and enjoyment. (Istock)
“Use clear language, make eye contact, and give your loved one extra time to respond or even not respond,” advised the California resident, Nealon.
“One-on-one interactions can be easier than larger group conversations, as the individual feels included and valued.”
5. Embrace familiar traditions
Sadarangani also recommends engaging your loved one in familiar traditions, such as rolling cookie dough or singing familiar songs, to “spark joy and a sense of inclusion.”
“Sensory activities like listening are soothing Holiday musicShe added that touching soft decorations or enjoying the scents of the season can evoke positive feelings without overwhelming them.
“Accept that holidays don't have to be perfect to be meaningful.”
Sadarangani suggested focusing on what they can do rather than on the restrictions imposed on them.
“Engage them in simple, meaningful tasks like folding napkins or going through photo albums,” she said. “Planning short, flexible activities can prevent fatigue.”
6. Provide a quiet space
Nealon noted that holidays tend to be noisier and busier than usual, which can overwhelm a person with dementia.
“If possible, have a quiet space or room where they can relax to unwind if necessary,” one expert suggested. (Istock)
“If you can, have a quiet space or room where they can relax to unwind if necessary,” she suggested on Fox News Digital.
“Set the room to be as comfortable as possible, with soft lighting, familiar objects and soothing music to create a feeling of calm.”
7. Prioritize self-care
For caregivers, Sadarangani stressed the importance of setting realistic expectations and Prioritize self-care.
“Accept that holidays don't have to be perfect to be meaningful, and embrace moments of connection, no matter how small,” she advised.
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To help ease the burden during the busy season, caregivers should ask for help when they need it.
“Caregiving can be physically and emotionally exhausting, and even brief moments of respite can go a long way toward reducing stress and avoiding burnout,” Nealon said.
“Ask for help, assign responsibilities to family members and involve the family in cooking, decorating and cleaning.”
“Caregivers can't do it all, and certainly not alone.”
8. Choose thoughtful gifts
When choosing gifts for someone with dementia, Nealon suggests considering their comfort and enjoyment.
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“Things like simple puzzles or a warm sensory blanket can provide much-needed comfort and joy,” she suggested.
9. Replace TV with music
For some people with dementia, watching TV can be difficult, as they may have difficulty reading stories, according to Hana Karim, a care expert at online care website Lottie.
“It is important to validate their feelings and provide reassurance.”
“This Christmas, replace the TV with the radio – or a playlist specifically designed for people with dementia – as it may be easier to follow,” suggested Karim, who is based in the UK.
She continued: “Music has many health and wellbeing benefits, especially for those living with dementia.” “Research has found that music can help reduce anxiety and spark joy while recalling good memories Christmas celebrations From the past.”
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Karim added that listening to family favorite Christmas songs during the holidays can also help create shared memories for everyone.
10. Validate their feelings
Emotional support is just as important as physical care, Corwin Irwin noted.
“Your loved one may feel Sad, anxious, or stressed “During the holidays, it's important to validate their feelings and provide reassurance,” she said.
“Stick with familiar, nostalgic décor, and avoid bright lights or loud sounds that may be overly stimulating,” suggests a geriatric nurse practitioner. (Istock)
You can do this by letting them know that it's okay to feel the way they do and that you're there to support them, according to Corwin Irwin.
“Simple gestures like holding their hand, hugging them, or sitting quietly with them can be very comforting,” she added.
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“By focusing on creating a calm, inclusive environment and cherishing meaningful moments, you can ensure that the holidays remain a source of joy and connection for your loved ones and family,” Sadarangani added.
