The buzz surrounding the holidays can bring mixed emotions for families with loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. While it’s the most cheerful time of the year, it may add more stress and added work to family caregivers.
Livathome, a provider of home health care services in Omaha, Nebraska, believes that by adjusting modifying one’s expectations and traditions, this holiday season can still be meaningful. Read on below to know more.
- Create a safe and calm space by toning down holiday decorations and avoiding safety hazards. If they live in a nursing home, request that their favorite holiday music being played in their non-medical home care in Nebraska.
- Adapt holiday activities and connect through technology. Arrange with other family members beforehand on how you can celebrate the holidays while maintaining physical distancing. This helps family members understand the current caregiving situation and safety precautions being taken to keep everyone safe and healthy.
- If your loved one lives at a care facility to get proper healthcare services, consider celebrating the holidays with them there. Familiar settings can avoid distress.
- Prepare holiday visitors and update them with the current situation. Let them know if there are changes in your loved one’s behavior and suggest ways on how they can communicate effectively with them.
- Take care of yourself and limit in-person gatherings. Spending time with other people is also very important for you during the holidays. You can schedule an outdoor visit with other family members with hot chocolate and blankets or go outside for a walk.