Alzheimer's/Dementia During the Holidays

By Bob Brueckman, Owner

BrightStar Care

. http://www.brightstarcare.com/

More Senior Health Articles

Alzheimer's/Dementia During the Holidays

As we approach the fast pace of the holiday season, families are busy making plans to visit loved ones and participate in a blitz of seasonal activities inside and outside the home. While this time of year may be relished by many, it is important to remember that for some, the holidays can be a source of great angst, especially for those with Alzheimer's and dementia. For people with cognitive impairments, overstimulation and changes to one's daily routine even the slightest variation are often the culprit of anxiety and challenging behaviors.

During the holidays, there are several potential triggers to be mindful of when caring for a loved one with memory loss. For starters, it's important to realize that a person with Alzheimer's or dementia may not have the same concept of time or the change in seasons as the average person, making he or she unable to comprehend what's being celebrated and why.

Another source of overstimulation is the increased number of interactions with family members and friends. While it is perfectly natural that families want to spend quality time with one another especially their elderly parents, grandparents, aunts or uncles for the person with cognitive impairments, the onslaught of “unfamiliar” faces can be very overwhelming. While he or she may have been an instrumental person in your life, if it's been a few months or even longer between visits, chances are you may now seem like a stranger, creating a stressful encounter for your loved one and you.

Most people who find pleasure in the holidays also have a fondness for the smells, sights and sounds of the season. While the brightly colored decorations and festive music may be enjoyable to you, for your loved one with Alzheimer's or dementia, the changes in his or her environment flashing lights, music, additional clutter may result in increased confusion, fear, anxiety, and safety issues, should there be obstacles in his or her normal path throughout the home.

Increased travel can also cause issues for a person with memory loss if he or she is not accustomed to frequent car rides or time spent in unfamiliar environments such as other homes and public places. These changes to his or her daily routine may result in challenging behaviors and can create a greater risk for wandering off or falling.

If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia, it is recommended that you consider these factors before the holidays to ensure a schedule that will best fit your loved one's needs. Consider spacing out family visits, limiting travel when possible, asking another family member to assist if you have an event to attend, or perhaps even care provided in the home by a trusted source should it be best for your loved one to maintain his or her normal routine.

With proper planning and identification of potential triggers, the holiday season can be an enjoyable, meaningful and safe time for both you and your loved one.