The holiday season can be a stressful time for everyone – but especially for those with dementia, as well as their carers and loved ones.
Statistics show that an estimated 6.7 million people over 65 in the US have Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia.
Meanwhile, nearly 90% of US adults report experiencing stress during the holidays, according to the American Psychological Association.
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“The holiday season can be confusing and overwhelming for those with dementia, and a stressful time for the family caregivers who care for them every day,” says Jessica Corona-Irwin, an Ohio-based registered nurse and board certified dementia specialist. Remo Health, a virtual dementia care company.
“One-on-one communication may be easier than large group discussions, as the person feels included and respected,” said one expert. (Stock)
“One reason for this is that the holiday season often involves changes in daily routines,” he told Fox News Digital. “People living with dementia often need to maintain a daily routine. This consistency may help them feel more secure and reduce anxiety.”
Several experts shared the following tips to help dementia patients, family members and caregivers enjoy a smooth, low-stress vacation.
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1. Prepare family and friends ahead of time
Kate Granigan, board president of the Aging Life Care Association in Boston, Massachusetts, recommends explaining any changes in a 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 good atmosphere.”
“Encourage visitors to be patient, avoid fixing or interrupting, and give your loved one time to express themselves,” she suggested to Fox News Digital.
“A little preparation and understanding helps create the perfect atmosphere.”
2. Be as consistent as possible
It’s important to try to keep meal times, bedtimes and other daily activities around the same times during the holiday season, according to Corona-Irwin.
“If changes are needed, do them gradually and communicate them clearly,” he advises.
One expert recommended involving your loved one in familiar rituals, such as stirring cookie dough or singing familiar songs, to “evoke joy and a sense of belonging.” (Stock)
“For example, if you’re planning a holiday meal at a different time, one tip is to start changing the regular meal times a few days in advance to help your loved one prepare properly.”
3. Simplify the environment
It is best to keep the dementia patient’s environment as simple as possible, according to Dr. Tina Sadarangani, NYU professor, board certified nurse, and founder of the CareMobi app and The Enlightened Caregiver.
“Stick to simple and unusual decorations, avoid bright lights or loud noises that might overstimulate,” she suggested.
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The theme of simplicity should extend to the activities, says Corona-Irwin.
“Prioritize simple and fun activities, 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 happiness without causing stress.”
4. Speak clearly and patiently
For many people with dementia, it can be a challenge to follow conversations, especially when the environment is very busy and noisy, according to Dr. Michele Nealon, president of The Chicago School, a nonprofit graduate school specializing in psychology and related behavioral sciences. .
When choosing gifts for someone with dementia, experts suggest considering their comfort and enjoyment. (Stock)
“Use direct language, make eye contact and give your loved one more time to respond or not,” advises California-based Nealon.
“One-on-one communication may be easier than large group discussions, as the person feels included and respected.”
5. Accept traditional customs
Sadarangani also recommends involving your loved one in familiar rituals, such as kneading cookie dough or singing familiar songs, “to evoke joy and a sense of belonging.”
“Sensory activities such as listening to soothing holiday music, touching soft decorations or enjoying the scents of the season can also evoke positive emotions without suppressing them,” she added.
“Accept that holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.”
Focus on what they can do rather than their limitations, suggests Sadarangani.
“Involve them in simple, meaningful tasks like folding napkins or flipping through photo albums,” she said. “Scheduling short, flexible activities can prevent burnout.”
6. Provide a calm environment
The holidays tend to be louder and busier than usual, which can overwhelm someone with dementia, Nealon notes.
“If you can, have a quiet place or room where they can retreat to rest if needed,” suggests the expert. (Stock)
“If you can, have a quiet place or a room where they can go back to rest if they need to,” he suggested to Fox News Digital.
“Make the room as cool as possible, with soft lighting, familiar objects and soft music to create a sense of calm.”
7. Put self-care first
For caregivers, Sadarangani emphasized the importance of setting realistic expectations and 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 advises.
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To help ease the burden during a busy season, caregivers should ask for help when they need it.
“Caregiving can be physically and emotionally exhausting, and even short breaks can go a long way in reducing stress and avoiding burnout,” Nealon said.
“Ask for help, give family members responsibilities and get the family involved in cooking, decorating and cleaning.”
“Caregivers 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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“Things like simple puzzles or a warm sensory blanket can provide much-needed comfort and happiness,” he suggested.
9. Replace TV with music
For some people with dementia, watching television can be difficult, as they may face problems, according to Hannah Karim, a care specialist who leads the online care finder Lottie.
“It’s important to validate their feelings and provide reassurance.”
“This Christmas, swap the TV for the radio – or a specially curated dementia-friendly playlist – as it can be easier to follow,” suggests Karim, who is based in the UK.
“Music has many health and well-being benefits, especially for those with dementia,” he continued. “Research has found that music can help reduce anxiety and induce happiness while recalling fond memories of past Christmas celebrations.”
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Listening to the family’s favorite Christmas carols 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, notes Corwin-Irwin.
“Your loved one may feel depressed, anxious or stressed during the holidays,” she said. “It’s important to validate their feelings and provide reassurance.”
“Stick to simple and unusual decorations, avoid bright lights or loud noises that may overstimulate,” suggests an elderly nurse. (Stock)
You can do this by letting them know that it’s OK to feel the way they do and that you’re there to support them, according to Corwin-Irwin.
“Simple actions like holding their hand, hugging them or sitting still can also be incredibly comforting,” she added.
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Adds Sadarangani, “By focusing on creating a calm, engaging environment and appreciating important moments, you can ensure that the holidays are always a source of joy and connection for your loved one and your family.”
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