Thanksgiving Planning for those with Dementia

With Thanksgiving less than two weeks away, it is time to think about how to include those with dementia in the holiday celebration. Holidays can be wonderful, but stressful for many people. If you have a family member with memory loss, there are additional considerations that need to be taken into account to increase the likelihood that everyone will be able to enjoy the day.

THINK SIMPLE.

Most people with Alzheimer’s do best with a predictable daily routine. By definition, a holiday represents a break from the routine, which can be disorienting. Try to keep most the routine of a normal day, and consider whether one large Thanksgiving gathering with all the family will be better than shorter visits throughout the weekend with different relatives.

PLAN AHEAD BUT DON’T EXPLAIN AHEAD.

There is a tendency to try to prepare the person with dementia for upcoming events. These efforts usually either confuse the person and make them anxious, or have no effect, as the person does not remember your coaching. If you are taking your loved one to a different setting, leave plenty of time to get there and explain as you go.

THINK SHORTER PERIODS OF TIME.

For someone with Alzheimer’s, engaging for long periods of time can be exhausting. Reconsider a schedule that has your loved one “on the go” for hours at a time. Your Thanksgiving gathering could be just for dessert. Or perhaps you could to arrive just before the meal and leave shortly afterwards.

For our full list of tips on planning ahead for the holidays for our loved ones with memory loss visit the ful post: http://whiteoakcottages.com/planningthanksgiving2015/

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