10 tips for dementia caregivers to make the holidays less stressful

The holiday season can be a stressful time for everyone – but especially for them living with dementiaas well as their guardians and loved ones.

Statistics show that an estimated 6.7 million people over the age of 65 in the US have Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia.

Meanwhile, nearly 90% of US adults report experiencing stress during the holiday season, according to the American Psychological Association.

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“The holiday season “It can be confusing and overwhelming for those living with dementia, as well as a stressful time for their family caregivers who care for them every day,” said Jessica Corona-Irwin, an Ohio registered nurse and board-certified dementia physician at Remo Health. virtual dementia care company.

“One-on-one interaction can be easier than talking in a larger group, because the individual feels included and valued,” said one expert. (iStock)

“One of the reasons for this is that the holiday season often involves changes in daily routines,” she told Fox News Digital. “People living with dementia often need to maintain a daily routine. This consistency can help them feel more secure and reduce anxiety.”

Several experts shared the following tips to help dementia patients, family members and caregivers enjoy a pleasant, stress-free vacation.

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1. Prepare family and friends in advance

Kate Granigan, board chair of the Aging Life Care Association in Boston, Massachusetts, recommends explaining any changes in a loved one’s behavior, memory or communication before the holiday gathering, especially if others are unfamiliar with dementia.

“A little preparation and understanding helps create a more positive atmosphere.”

“Encourage visitors to be patient, avoid correcting or interrupting, and give the loved one time to express themselves,” she suggested to Fox News Digital.

“A little preparation and understanding helps create a more positive atmosphere.”

2. Stay as consistent as possible

It’s important to try to keep mealtimes, sleep and other daily activities around the same time during the holiday season, according to Corona-Irwin.

“If changes are necessary, introduce them gradually and communicate them clearly,” she advised.

One expert recommended involving your loved one in familiar traditions, such as mixing cookie dough or singing familiar songs, to “encourage joy and a sense of inclusion.” (iStock)

“For example, if you’re planning a holiday meal at a different time, one tip is to start moving your usual meal times a few days in advance to help your loved one adjust more easily.”

3. Simplify the environment

It is best to keep the environment of patients with dementia as simple as possible, according to Dr. Tina Sadarangani, NYU professor, certified geriatric nurseand founder of the CareMobi app and The Enlightened Caregiver.

“Stick to familiar and nostalgic decorations, avoiding flashy lights or loud noises that might be too stimulating,” she suggested.

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The theme of simplicity should extend to activities, Corona-Irwin said.

“Prioritize activities that are simple and enjoyable, such as listening to your favorite holiday music, looking at old family photos, or engaging in gentle, sensory activities,” she suggested.

“They can be very comforting and can bring joy without causing stress.”

4. Communicate clearly and patiently

For many people with dementia, it can be challenging to follow conversations, especially when the environment is very busy and noisy, according to Dr. Michele Nealon, president of The Chicago School, a nonprofit graduate school focused on psychology and related behavioral sciences.

When choosing gifts for a person with dementia, experts suggest considering their comfort and enjoyment. (iStock)

“Use simple language, make eye contact, and give your loved one more time to respond or not at all,” advises Nealon, of California.

“One-on-one interaction can be easier than talking in a larger group, because the individual feels included and valued.”

5. Embrace familiar traditions

Sadarangani also recommends involving your loved one in familiar traditions, such as mixing cookie dough or singing familiar songs, to “encourage joy and a sense of inclusion.”

“Sensory activities such as listening are calming holiday musictouching soft decorations or enjoying the scents of the season can also evoke positive feelings without overwhelming them,” she added.

“Accept that holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.”

Focus on what they can do, not their limitations, Sadarangani suggested.

“Involve them in simple, meaningful tasks like folding napkins or flipping through a photo album,” she said. “Planning short, flexible activities can prevent fatigue.”

6. Provide a quiet space

The holidays tend to be noisier and busier than usual, which can take a toll on someone with dementia, Nealon noted.

“If you can, have a quiet space or room where they can retreat to relax if needed,” suggested the expert. (iStock)

“If you can, have a quiet space or a room where they can retreat to relax if needed,” she suggested to Fox News Digital.

“Make the room as soothing as possible, with soft lighting, familiar objects and soft music to create a sense of calm.”

7. Prioritize self-care

For caregivers, Sadarangani emphasized the importance of setting realistic expectations and prioritizing self-care.

“Accept that the holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful, and embrace the moments of connection, no matter how small,” she advised.

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To lighten the load during the busy season, caregivers should ask for help when they need it.

“Caregiving can be physically and emotionally draining, and even short moments of respite can go a long way in reducing stress and avoiding burnout,” Nealon said.

“Ask for help, assign responsibilities to family members, and involve the family in cooking, decorating and cleaning.”

“Caregivers can’t do everything, especially not alone.”

8. Choose thoughtful gifts

When choosing gifts for someone with dementia, Nealon suggests thinking about their comfort and enjoyment.

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“Items like simple puzzles or a warm sensory blanket can provide much-needed comfort and joy,” she suggested.

9. Replace TV with music

For some people living with dementia, watching TV can be difficult, as they can struggle with the stories, according to Hannah Karim, care specialist manager for Lottie, who seeks help online.

“It’s important to validate their feelings and give them reassurance.”

“This Christmas, replace the TV with the radio — or a specially curated playlist for people with dementia — because it’s easier to follow,” suggested Karim, who lives in the UK.

“Music has many health and wellbeing benefits, particularly for those with dementia,” she continued. “Research has shown that music can help reduce anxiety and promote joy as you recall fond memories of Christmas celebrations from the past.”

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Listening to a family’s favorite Christmas carols during the holidays can also help create shared memories for everyone, Karim added.

10. Validate their feelings

Emotional support is just as important as physical care, Corwin-Irwin noted.

“Your loved one could feel it sad, anxious or depressed during the holidays,” she said. “It’s important to validate their feelings and give them reassurance.”

“Stick to familiar and nostalgic decorations, avoiding flashing lights or loud noises that might be too stimulating,” suggested the geriatric nurse. (iStock)

You can do this by letting them know that it’s okay to feel the way they do and that you’re there to support them, says Corwin-Irwin.

“Simple gestures like holding their hand, giving them a hug or sitting quietly with them can be incredibly comforting,” she added.

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Sadarangani added, “By focusing on creating a peaceful, inclusive environment and cherishing meaningful moments, you can ensure that the holidays remain a source of joy and connection for your loved one and your family.”