The holiday season is a stressful time for everyone, but especially for people living with dementia, their caregivers, and loved ones.
Statistics show that an estimated 6.7 million people in the United States over the age of 65 have Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia.
Meanwhile, nearly 90% of U.S. adults report feeling stressed during the holiday season, according to the American Psychological Association.
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Jessica Corona Irwin, an Ohio-based registered nurse and board-certified dementia specialist, said, “The holiday season can be confusing and overwhelming for people living with dementia, and it can also be stressful for the family caregivers who care for them every day.” “There is a possibility that this will be a period with a lot of Remo Health is a virtual dementia care company.
“One-on-one interactions can be easier than large group conversations because individuals feel accepted and valued,” one expert said. (St. Petersburg)
“Part of the reason is that the holiday season often involves changes in daily life,” she told FOX News Digital. “People living with dementia often need to maintain a routine. This consistency can help them feel more secure and less anxious.”
Several experts have shared the following tips to help dementia patients, their families and carers have a smooth and stress-free holiday.
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1. Ask family and friends to prepare in advance
Kate Granigan, president of the Aging Life Care Association in Boston, Massachusetts, recommends checking your loved one’s behavior, memory, and communication before a holiday gathering, especially if others are new to dementia. It is recommended that the changes be explained.
“A little preparation and understanding can help create a more positive atmosphere.”
“Encourage visitors to be patient, avoid making corrections or interruptions, and give your loved one time to express themselves,” she suggested to FOX News Digital.
“A little preparation and understanding can help create a more positive atmosphere.”
2. Be as consistent as possible
Corona-Irwin says it’s important to keep mealtimes, bedtimes and other daily routines around the same times during the holiday season.
“If you need to make a change, make it gradually and communicate clearly,” she advised.
One expert recommended involving your loved one in familiar traditions, like stirring cookie dough or singing a familiar song, to “evoke a sense of joy and togetherness.” (St. Petersburg)
“For example, if you’re planning holiday meal times at different times, one tip is to start shifting your regular meal times a few days in advance to help your loved one adjust smoothly.”
3. Simplify your environment
According to Dr. Tina Sadarangani, a professor at New York University, a board-certified geriatric nurse practitioner, and founder of the CareMobi app and The Enlightened Caregiver, it’s best to keep the surroundings of dementia patients as simple as possible. is.
“Stick to familiar, nostalgic decor and avoid flashing lights and loud noises that can be overstimulating,” she suggested.
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The theme of simplicity should extend to activities, Corona Irwin said.
“Prioritize simple, fun activities, like listening to your favorite holiday music, looking at old family photos, or doing activities that are calming and stimulating to the senses,” she suggested.
“These are very comfortable and bring joy without causing stress.”
4. Communicate clearly and patiently
Michelle Nealon, Ph.D., dean of the Chicago School, a nonprofit graduate school focused on psychology and related behavioral sciences, says that for many people with dementia, it can be difficult to keep up with conversations, especially when the world around them is very busy or noisy. It can be difficult. .
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“Use direct language, make eye contact, and give your loved one time to respond or not respond,” Nealon, who is based in California, advised.
“One-on-one interactions are easier than large group conversations because individuals feel accepted and valued.”
5. Embrace familiar traditions
Sadarangani also recommends involving loved ones in familiar traditions, like stirring cookie dough or singing a familiar song, to “evoke a sense of joy and togetherness.”
“Sensory activities such as listening to calming holiday music, touching soft decorations, and enjoying seasonal scents can also evoke positive emotions without overwhelming them,” she added.
“Accept that your vacation doesn’t have to be perfect for it to be meaningful.”
Sadarangani suggested focusing on what can be done rather than limitations.
“Involve children in simple, meaningful tasks like folding napkins or flipping through photo albums,” she says. “Planning short, flexible activities can help prevent fatigue.”
6. Providing a calm space
Nealon points out that holidays tend to be louder and busier than usual, which can leave people with dementia feeling overwhelmed.
“If possible, set up a quiet space or room where you can relax if you need to,” the expert suggested. (St. Petersburg)
“If possible, have a quiet space or room where you can relax if you need to,” she suggested to FOX News Digital.
“Set the room as calmly as possible, with soft lighting, familiar objects, and soothing music to create a sense of tranquility.”
7. Prioritize self-care
For caregivers, Sadarangani emphasized the importance of setting realistic expectations and prioritizing self-care.
“Accept that the holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful and cherish the moments of connection, no matter how small,” she advised.
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To ease the burden during busy periods, caregivers should ask for help when needed.
“Caregiving can be physically and mentally exhausting, and even short breaks can go a long way in reducing stress and avoiding burnout,” Nealon said.
“Ask for help, assign responsibilities to family members, and get them involved in cooking, decorating, and cleaning up.”
“Caregivers can’t do everything, and they certainly can’t do it alone.”
8. Choose thoughtful gifts
When choosing a gift for someone with dementia, Nealon suggests considering the person’s comfort and enjoyment.
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“Items like simple puzzles or blankets that bring a sense of warmth can provide much-needed comfort and joy,” she suggested.
9. Swap your TV for music
Hannah Karim, lead care expert at online care search service Lottie, said some people with dementia may find it difficult to watch television because they may struggle with storylines.
“It’s important to acknowledge their feelings and make them feel safe.”
“Why not use the radio or a specially curated dementia-friendly playlist instead of the TV this Christmas, as it’s easier to listen to,” suggested Karim, who lives in the UK.
“Music has many health and wellbeing benefits, especially for people with dementia,” she continued. “Studies have shown that music can help reduce anxiety and evoke joy while recalling fond memories of Christmases past.”
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Listening to your family’s favorite Christmas songs during the holidays also helps create shared memories for everyone, Karim added.
10. Check the other person’s feelings
Corwin Irwin pointed out that emotional support is just as important as physical care.
“Your loved one may be feeling sad, anxious, or overwhelmed during the holidays,” she said. “It’s important to acknowledge their feelings and make them feel safe.”
“Stick to familiar, nostalgic decor and avoid flashing lights and loud noises that can be overstimulating,” suggested one geriatric nurse. (St. Petersburg)
According to Corwin Irwin, this can be done by letting them know that it’s okay to feel however they feel and that you are there to support them.
“Simple gestures like holding hands, hugging, and sitting quietly together can be incredibly comforting,” she added.
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“Creating a calm, inclusive environment and focusing on valuing meaningful time will ensure that the holidays remain a source of joy and connection for loved ones and families,” Sadarangani said. he added.
