Advice for the Holiday Season when Caring for People with Alzheimer's Disease or Dementia

While the holiday season is joyous for many people, families with loved ones who have Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other forms of memory loss, may have challenges that need to be understood. Dr. Tahir Majeed, Executive Director of Spring Hills Mt. Vernon Assisted Living, offers advice that is helpful for anyone who cares for someone with memory loss.

Majeed explains, “For people who have memory loss, celebrations can be over-stimulating and can cause that person to be withdrawn or, perhaps, agitated. There’s conversation happening that they can’t follow with people they don’t recognize. Guests are excited to see each other, there’s raised noise levels and so much activity which can be very confusing. When they see relatives they haven’t seen in a long time, they can feel lost because they don’t know who these relatives are.”

Majeed recommends avoiding big Christmas dinners and parties and says, “If your loved ones are in communities, bring them to your home for more quiet experiences, not big celebrations. Have only a few guests at your home. And, be sure to let the guests know in advance what to expect. When having a conversation with a person with memory loss, try to focus on them.” Majeed adds, “If they are confused and, as an example, think a great grandchild is one of their own children, there’s no need to correct what they are saying. Go with the flow or, as we like to say, ‘dance’ with them. Let them take the lead and follow their conversation. It’s most respectful.”

The best way to celebrate with someone who lives in a community is to go to them. He added, “Celebrate in their own environment. Go to their community, the place they recognize and know. It decreases their agitation level.”

Spring Hills Mount Vernon, located at 3709 Shannons Green Way in Alexandria, provides premier assisted living and memory care with the finest amenities in the Northern Virginia/Washington, DC, area. For additional information visitwww.springhillsmountvernon.com.

About Spring Hills Senior Communities:

All Spring Hills Senior Communities offer a distinctive and innovative approach to senior living and Home Care Services as led by Alex Markowits, President/CEO. Signature Touches is the company’s approach to offering services that are designed to meet the needs and preferences of residents and clients. Personal choice is top priority, which is exemplified by recreational programs led by professionals in one of the company’s eight communities located in NJ, VA, OH and FL or in their own home. For more information about their commitment to senior living, including information on Spring Hills Home Care Services, visit www.spring-hills.com.