But this time of year can also be filled with stress, sadness, and disappointment. Caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's or other dementia may feel overwhelmed in their efforts to maintain holiday traditions while caring for a loved one. In addition, the person with Alzheimer's may feel a special sense of loss during this season.
If you are a caregiver, realize that it's normal to feel frustrated and angry before, during, or after the holidays. Brookdale Senior Living, one of the leading providers of senior living residences in the nation, including Alzheimer's and dementia care, offers these suggestions to help make this time of year less stressful.
Adjust Expectations -- Do only what you can manage. Understand that you may not be able to participate in every event or tradition. -- Have small gatherings at home and suggest a potluck holiday meal. Have a noon meal to avoid the evening confusion that is common for individuals with Alzheimer's. -- Communicate with visitors so they will understand and be able to communicate with your loved one.
Involve Your Loved One -- Start slowly by asking for help with preparing food, wrapping packages, or hanging decorations. -- Maintain the normal daily routine to avoid confusion and disruption. -- Expand on past holiday activities. Your loved one may enjoy singing favorite holiday songs, but you can try starting a new tradition, such as watching seasonal movies that a less active person can enjoy.
Suggest Gift Ideas to Family Members and Friends -- Encourage useful and practical gifts such as comfortable clothing, tapes of favorite music, photo albums, family videos, or an identification bracelet. For a more comprehensive list, visit http://www.brookdaleliving.com/gift-ideas-alzheimers-patients.aspx. -- Discourage challenging board games, dangerous tools, complicated electronic equipment, or pets.
Pay Attention to Your Own Needs -- Understand that it is natural to experience feelings of anger, frustration, and grief. -- Ask for help and support. Respond with a specific task if someone asks to help. -- Take or accept a break, arrange for in-home care, and enjoy a movie or meal with a friend.
