Keep Family Gatherings Simple for a Loved One with Dementia

The Alzheimer’s Association warns families to not expect too much from a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia during the holiday season.  Rather they explain that “when a loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, a little extra planning can help make holiday celebrations enjoyable for everyone.”

Start by going over holiday celebrations with other relatives and close friends and make sure everyone is aware of the situation. The National Institute on Aging cautions that big, crowded celebrations can cause confusion and anxiety for a person with Alzheimer’s so you may want to limit the number of people gathered at any one time.  

Involve the person with Alzheimer’s in safe, simple activities such as asking them to help prepare food, hang ornaments, or to wrap packages.  This can be a nice time for them to open up and reminisce about the old days.  It is best to avoid using candies or other edibles as decorations and keep in mind that blinking lights may confuse a person with dementia.   

Also maintain the person’s routine so the holidays do not become too disruptive or confusing, and remember to stay flexible.  Experts say it may be better to have your celebratory meal at noon rather than in the evening as some people with Alzheimer’s experience evening confusion or “sundowning.” Keep a room available where the person can go and rest if they are feeling too stimulated or confused.  Here you can have a quiet activity laid out for them such as a photo album they will enjoy looking through or play calming music. 

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers care to those with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s Disease or other forms of dementia. We are a team of compassionate, professionals who feel privileged to serve our most “tender residents.”  We also consider supporting family members as part of our job and recognize that a diagnosis of dementia is traumatizing for all involved.  Visit our website for availability and pricing information and to schedule a tour. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Sources: nia.nih.gov/health/holiday-hints-alzheimers-caregivers

hrrv.org/blog/celebrating-the-holidays-when-a-loved-one-has-alzheimers/