Reducing Holiday Stress when Living with Alzheimer’s disease

While holiday celebrations are often joyous occasions, they can bring about unforeseen challenges to a family living with Alzheimer’s. Family and friends may be unfamiliar with ways on how to include someone with Alzheimer’s into holiday celebrations. With proactive planning and open expectations, the holiday season can still be memorable and happy for everyone.

A few tips from the Alzheimer’s Association includes:

• Make sure others know- Inform guest on the best communication methods such as giving the person with Alzheimer’s enough time to finish his or her thoughts. Let guest understand that changes in behavior and memory are caused by the disease and not the person
• Check in with the person with Alzheimer’s- A simple “How are you doing” or “How are you coping with everything?” may be appreciated. Some may withdraw and be less comfortable socializing while others may relish seeing family and friends as before.
• Build on traditions and memories- Discover what works best with your caregiving responsibilities. For example, if disorientation and anxiety occurs later in the day, recommend having a holiday lunch instead of a holiday dinner.
• Involve the person with Alzheimer’s- Based on preference and abilities, incorporate activities that the person with Alzheimer’s might enjoy, such as packing cookies in tins.
• Plan ahead- Prepare the host in advance with any requested special needs such as a quiet room away from distractions or loud noises.

About the Alzheimer's Association

Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's. For more information on programs and services, visit the Alzheimer's Association at alz.org/nyc or call the 24/7 multi-lingual Helpline at 800-272-3900.