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Navigating the holiday season can be a mix of joy and challenge, especially when a loved one has Alzheimer’s or dementia. Having experienced the complexities firsthand with my grandmother, I understand the delicate balance required during these times. The holidays were always her favorite, but as dementia crept in, her outbursts and confusion became a heart-wrenching part of our celebrations.
Dementia can transform a person’s behavior, making holidays stressful. My grandmother, once the heart of our holiday gatherings, began to feel overwhelmed, often lashing out in confusion and frustration. It’s crucial to recognize that these responses are symptoms of the disease, not a reflection of their character or feelings towards the family.
Adjust Expectations: Holidays with a dementia-affected family member will look different. It’s about finding joy in the new normal, cherishing the good moments, and letting go of the perfect holiday image. Learn to recognize the value in simpler celebrations.
Familiarity and Routine: For those with dementia, unfamiliar environments can be disorienting. Keeping decorations simple and maintaining a regular routine can help reduce anxiety. We found that playing my grandmother’s favorite old songs brought a sense of calm and familiarity.
Inclusive Activities: Involve your loved one in holiday preparations as much as possible. Simple tasks like folding napkins or arranging flowers can make them feel included and valued.
Manage Expectations with Visitors: Inform visitors ahead about your loved one’s condition. Encourage them to engage in a calm, patient manner, and to not take any hurtful remarks personally.
Create a Quiet Space: The hustle and bustle can be overwhelming. Designate a quiet room where your loved one can retreat if things get too noisy or confusing.
Simplify Gift-Giving: Complicated gifts can be frustrating. Opt for simple, practical gifts like comfortable clothing or photo albums.
Monitor Food and Drink: Keep dietary needs in mind. Avoid foods that might cause discomfort or health issues. Limit alcohol as it can exacerbate confusion.
Plan for Breaks: Caregiving during holidays can be exhausting. Ensure you have some time to rest and recharge. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family members.
Safety First: With additional holiday decorations and potentially hazardous items like candles, ensure the environment is safe for someone with cognitive impairment.
Embrace the Moment: Learn to find happiness in the moment, even if it’s different from past celebrations. Treasure the good moments and let go of the ones that are less than perfect.
Dealing with my grandmother’s outbursts during the holidays was a learning curve. Initially, it was heartbreaking to see her so distressed. Over time, I learned to detach the disease from the person. When she lashed out, I understood it was her frustration and confusion speaking, not her true self. We learned to divert her attention to more pleasant topics or activities when we sensed her agitation rising.
Celebrating the holidays with a family member who has dementia is a journey of love, patience, and understanding. It’s about adapting traditions and creating an environment where everyone, including your loved one with dementia, can find joy and comfort. As I reminisce about the holidays with my grandmother, I am filled with a bittersweet blend of nostalgia and gratitude. Our celebrations were not perfect, but they were enveloped in love, and that’s what truly matters.
