The holidays 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 US have Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia.
Meanwhile, nearly 90% of American adults report experience stress during the holidays, according to the American Psychological Association.
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“The holiday season can be confusing and overwhelming for people with dementia, but also a stressful time for their caregivers who care for them every day,” says Jessica Corona-Irwin, an Ohio-based nurse and certified dementia practitioner at Remo Health, a virtual dementia care company.
“One-on-one interactions can be easier than larger group conversations because the individual feels included and valued,” said one expert. (iStock)
“One reason for this is that the holidays often bring changes in daily routines,” she told Fox News Digital. “People with dementia often need a daily routine. This consistency can help them feel more secure and reduce anxiety.”
Several experts shared the following tips to help dementia patients: relatives and caregivers enjoy a smooth holiday with little stress.
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1. Prepare family and friends in advance
Kate Granigan, board chair of the Aging Life Care Association in Boston, Massachusetts, recommends explaining any changes in the loved one’s behavior, memory or communication before holiday gatherings, especially if others are unfamiliar with dementia.
“A little preparation and understanding helps create a more positive atmosphere.”
“Encourage visitors to be patient, don’t correct or interrupt, and give your loved one time to express themselves,” she suggested to Fox News Digital.
“A little preparation and understanding helps create a more positive atmosphere.”
2. Stay as consistent as possible
According to Corona-Irwin, it’s important to try to keep meal times, bedtimes and other daily activities at approximately the same times during the holidays.
“If changes are needed, make them gradually and communicate them clearly,” she advised.
One expert recommended involving your loved one in familiar traditions, such as stirring cookie dough or singing familiar songs, to “spark joy and a sense of commitment.” (iStock)
“For example, if you’re planning a holiday meal at a different time, one tip is to start shifting the usual meal time a few days in advance so your loved one can adjust smoothly.”
3. Simplify the environment
It’s best to keep the dementia patient’s environment as simple as possible, according to Dr. Tina Sadarangani, an NYU professor, board certified geriatric nurseand founder of the CareMobi app and The Enlightened Caregiver.
“Stick to familiar and nostalgic decorations and avoid flashing lights or loud noises that can be overstimulating,” she suggested.
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The theme of simplicity should extend to the activities, Corona-Irwin said.
“Prioritize activities that are simple and enjoyable, such as listening to favorite holiday music, looking at old family photos, or engaging in gentle, sensory activities,” she suggested.
“These can be very comforting and bring joy without causing stress.”
4. Communicate clearly and patiently
For many people with dementia, it can be a challenge to follow conversations, especially if the environment is very busy and noisy, said Dr. Michele Nealon, president of The Chicago School, a nonprofit graduate school focused on psychology and related behavioral sciences. .
When choosing gifts for someone with dementia, experts recommend 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,” California-based Nealon advised.
“One-on-one interactions can be easier than larger group conversations because the individual feels included and valued.”
5. Embrace familiar traditions
Sadarangani also recommends involving your loved one in familiar traditions, such as stirring cookie dough or singing familiar songs, to “spark joy and a sense of commitment.”
“Sensory activities such as listening to calming activities holiday musictouching soft decorations or enjoying the scents of the season can also evoke positive feelings without overwhelming them,” she added.
“Accept that vacations don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.”
Focus on what they can do rather than their limitations, Sadarangani suggested.
“Involve them in simple, meaningful tasks like folding napkins or looking through photo albums,” she said. “Planning short, flexible activities can prevent fatigue.”
6. Provide a quiet space
The holidays are often noisier and busier than usual, which can overwhelm someone with dementia, Nealon noted.
“If you can, provide a quiet space or room where they can retreat for relaxation when needed,” one expert suggested. (iStock)
“If you can, provide a quiet space or room where they can retreat for relaxation when needed,” she suggested to Fox News Digital.
“Decorate the room as soothing as possible, with soft lighting, familiar objects and soft music to create a sense of calm.”
7. Prioritize self-care
For healthcare providers, Sadarangani emphasized the importance of setting realistic expectations prioritizing 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 ease the burden during the busy season, caregivers should reach out for help when they need it.
“Caregiving can be physically and emotionally draining, and even brief moments of rest can go a long way in reducing stress and preventing burnout,” says Nealon.
“Ask for help, assign responsibilities to family members, and involve the family in cooking, decorating, and cleaning up.”
“Health care providers 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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“Items like simple puzzles or a warm sensory blanket can provide much-needed comfort and pleasure,” she suggested.
9. Swap the TV for music
Watching television can be difficult for some people with dementia because they have difficulty with storylines, according to Hannah Karim, care expert at online care finder Lottie.
“It’s important to validate their feelings and provide reassurance.”
“Swap the TV for the radio this Christmas – or a specially curated dementia-friendly playlist – as it’s easier to follow,” suggested Karim, who lives in Britain.
“Music has many health and wellbeing benefits, especially for people with dementia,” she continued. “Research has shown that music can help reduce anxiety and spark joy as you reminisce about fond memories of Christmas celebrations from the past.”
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Listening to the family’s favorite Christmas songs during the holidays can also help create shared memories for everyone, Karim added.
10. Validate their feelings
Emotional support is just as important as physical care, Corwin-Irwin noted.
“Your loved one may be feeling sad, anxious or overwhelmed during the holidays,” she said. “It’s important to validate their feelings and provide reassurance.”
“Stick to familiar and nostalgic decorations and avoid flashing lights or loud noises that can be overstimulating,” one geriatric nurse suggested. (iStock)
You can do this by letting them know that it’s okay to feel this way and that you’re there to support them, Corwin-Irwin says.
“Simple gestures such as holding their hand, giving them a hug or sitting quietly with them can be incredibly comforting,” she added.
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Sadarangani added, “By focusing on creating a peaceful, inclusive environment and cherishing meaningful moments, you can ensure that the holidays remain a source of joy and connection for your loved one and your family.”
