Celebrating the holidays when a loved one has Alzheimer’s disease

As the holiday season approaches, families are preparing to come together and celebrate. These gatherings are a time for joy, love, and cherished traditions, but they can also present challenges when a family member is living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia.  Celebrating the holidays when a loved one has Alzheimer’s disease takes a little planning, understanding, and compassion. It is possible to include your loved one in these special celebrations and all can enjoy this festive time.

Communication is Key

Effective communication is crucial when a family member has Alzheimer’s. Make sure to inform all family members and guests about your loved one’s condition beforehand, so they can adjust their expectations and behavior accordingly. Encourage patience and understanding and remind everyone to use simple and clear language when speaking.

Create a Comfortable Environment

Consider your loved one’s comfort and safety when planning holiday gatherings. If possible, celebrate in a familiar and quiet setting, as new or crowded places can be overwhelming. Reduce noise and distractions, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere.

Stick to Familiar Traditions

While some adaptations may be necessary, try to maintain as many of your family’s holiday traditions as possible. Familiar routines can provide a sense of security and comfort for your loved one. If your family has unique customs or rituals, include your loved one in a way that suits their abilities.

Schedule Sensibly

Plan your holiday events with your loved one’s daily routine in mind. Try to schedule gatherings during their best times of the day, when they are most alert and less likely to experience agitation or fatigue. Keep activities short and simple to prevent overwhelming them.

Involve Them in Preparations

Engage your loved one in holiday preparations to help them feel included. Simple tasks like setting the table or stirring cookie batter can provide a sense of purpose and contribute to their sense of belonging.

Be Mindful of Dietary Restrictions

If your loved one has dietary restrictions or swallowing difficulties, ensure that the holiday meal options are safe and suitable for them. Consider offering familiar and easily manageable foods to prevent any discomfort.

Create Memory Aids

To help engage in conversations and connect with others, consider creating memory aids. This can include a photo album with captions, a holiday-themed scrapbook, or a “cheat sheet” with names and brief descriptions of family members and friends attending the gathering.

Delegate Responsibilities

Don’t hesitate to ask for help from other family members and friends. Delegating responsibilities can help ensure that someone is always available to provide support and companionship during the gathering.

Encourage Social Interaction

Encourage family members and guests to engage with your loved one in meaningful ways. Simple activities like looking at old photographs, sharing stories, or listening to music can help create positive interactions and reduce feelings of isolation.

Be Flexible and Patient

Remember that Alzheimer’s can be unpredictable, and your loved one’s mood and abilities may vary throughout the gathering. Stay flexible and patient and be ready to adapt plans if needed. The most important thing is to make your loved one feel loved and included, even if it means adjusting your expectations.

Hurley Elder Care Law’s care coordinators work with our client families to create an environment that ensures the greatest success for our clients with dementia. Also, many families call our office after the holidays as this is a time when they notice significant changes in their loved ones and realize they need assistance of an elder law attorney. Please call us at 404-843-0121 with any questions or to discuss your situation.