Alzheimer’s Association Offers Tips to Reduce Caregivers’ Holiday Stress
The holiday season can be a stressful time for many, but for the 546,000 dementia caregivers in New York State, the holidays can be especially challenging. In fact, nearly one-quarter of caregivers in New York report feeling depressed, according to the Alzheimer’s Association’s 2023 Facts and Figures report.
Add in the holidays and caregivers may feel overwhelmed by maintaining traditions while also providing care. The Western New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association offers the following tips on how families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias can safely enjoy time with family and friends during the holidays:
Involve the person living with Alzheimer’s:
Depending on abilities and preferences, make sure to keep the person with Alzheimer’s involved in the celebrations, such as packing cookies in tins or helping wrap gifts.
Focus on the things that bring happiness and let go of activities that seem overwhelming, stressful or too risky. Taking on too many tasks can wear on both of you.
Plan ahead and make sure loved ones are aware of the situation:
Discuss holiday celebrations with family and friends in advance, and make sure everyone understands your caregiving situation and the safety precautions you’re taking to help keep your loved one healthy.
Everyone needs a break. Offer to give your family’s main caregiver respite while in the presence of other trusted family and friends.
When attending a holiday party, prepare the host for special needs, such as a quiet room for the person to rest when they get tired, away from the noise and distractions.
Crosstalk or simultaneous conversations can be challenging for people living with Alzheimer’s, so encourage guests to try engaging them one-on-one or in smaller group settings instead.
Build on traditions and memories:
Take time to experiment with new traditions that might be less stressful or a better fit for your caregiving responsibilities, such as watching seasonal movies.
If evening confusion and agitation are a problem, consider turning your holiday dinner into a holiday lunch or brunch.
Don’t be afraid to lean into virtual celebrations:
If visiting in person isn’t possible or practical, consider using Zoom, Skype or FaceTime calls as a way to connect over the holidays.
You can also record and send video holiday cards with personalized messages or share videos of special moments such as children opening gifts.
The Alzheimer’s Association provides information, programs and services at no charge to help families living with Alzheimer’s disease. For more information, visit alz.org or call the free 24-hour Helpline at: 800.272.3900.