Tips for the Holidays When a Loved One Has Dementia

Ariene Malicdem • December 19, 2022

For those with dementia, the holidays can be confusing and overwhelming. And oftentimes, family members don’t know how to best care for their loved one with dementia during the holidays. However, with a few tips, you can minimize many potential difficulties and make the holidays a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Here are some tips for the holidays when a loved one has dementia.

Be Prepared

To prepare, you should first discuss the plans with your loved one with dementia and any other family members attending. Ask them for their input to make sure everyone is on the same page to minimize surprises.

Consider how to handle difficult situations, such as if your loved one is feeling overwhelmed or agitated. For example, you may want to create a quiet, safe space where they can relax.

Additionally, invite family members or friends who will provide comfort and support. You might also consider hiring a home care provider with experience caring for someone with dementia to give you a helping hand if needed.

Stay Positive

The holidays are already stressful, and adding a loved one with dementia to the equation can make it even more complicated. Therefore, staying positive and taking things one step at a time is necessary.

Focus on helping everyone have a good time, and don’t get caught up in the details. If something goes wrong, be positive and keep things light. Keeping a positive attitude about the holidays will help everyone stay focused on the joy of the season. Plus, it can help your loved one with dementia feel more at ease and comfortable.

Be Flexible

The holidays may require flexibility due to changes in mood or behaviors associated with dementia. Being flexible means understanding that it may be necessary to adjust activities and plans to accommodate the needs of your loved one. You won’t always have control of the situation, but you can be prepared and adjust as needed.

Your loved one may need breaks or may not want to participate in certain activities. It’s important to keep expectations realistic and focus on what your loved one can do rather than what they can’t.

Take Care of Yourself

Above all else, you must consider your own needs. It can be quite taxing to care for a loved one with dementia during holiday festivities, and you need to make sure you’re maintaining your own mental and physical health.

Get enough rest, stay hydrated, and eat well. You may even want to take some time away from the festivities. During this time, you can engage in activities that bring you joy or just enjoy some peace and quiet.

By taking care of yourself, you’ll be in a better position to support your loved one with dementia.

Conclusion

Although celebrating the holidays with a family member with dementia may seem stressful, it can be wonderful with the right preparation and support. With these tips in mind, you’ll be better equipped to handle potential problems.

If you need some extra help this holiday season, Tradition Home Care is here for you. Our experienced caregivers provide compassionate care and support to individuals with dementia and their families. Call us at 1-877-705-6015 or reach out online to learn more about home care services.

The post Tips for the Holidays When a Loved One Has Dementia first appeared on Tradition Home Care.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Morning Routines Are Essential for Seniors

By Ariene Malicdem • June 30, 2023

Are you an early bird or a night owl? Even if you dislike the morning, having a consistent morning routine can set a positive tone for the rest of your day. Still not convinced? Here are four reasons why morning routines are essential for seniors. The post Morning Routines Are Essential for Seniors first appeared on Tradition Home Care.

10 Benefits of Hiring a Home Care Provider

By Ariene Malicdem • June 1, 2023

It can be hard to admit, but sometimes as they age seniors need a little extra help. A family may resist the thought of having an outsider help their senior loved one, but often home care is much more than what seniors and their families think it is. Here are 10 benefits of a hiring a home care provider. The post 10 Benefits of Hiring a Home Care Provider first appeared on Tradition Home Care.

6 Healthy Fruit Snacks for Seniors This Spring

By Ariene Malicdem • May 3, 2023

Healthy snacks help seniors maintain their energy and overall health throughout the day. And when it comes to healthy snacks, fruit is always an inexpensive and tasty option. Here are six healthy fruit snacks for seniors this spring. The post 6 Healthy Fruit Snacks for Seniors This Spring first appeared on Tradition Home Care.

National Reading Month: The Importance of Reading for Seniors

By Ariene Malicdem • March 25, 2023

Reading books provides seniors with an escape from everyday life and enriches their lives in many ways. This National Reading Month, help your senior loved ones find a new book to read. Here are the benefits of reading for seniors and tips on getting your loved ones to read more. The post National Reading Month: The Importance of Reading for Seniors first appeared on Tradition Home Care.

Low Vision Awareness Month: Helping a Visually Impaired Loved One

By Ariene Malicdem • February 20, 2023

This February is Low Vision Awareness Month and a chance to raise awareness about vision loss in seniors. By 2030, it’s estimated that there will be over 5 million seniors with low vision. This issue affects millions of Americans each year and can cause decreased quality of life and independence. Let’s go over why Low Vision Awareness Month matters and… The post Low Vision Awareness Month: Helping a Visually Impaired Loved One first appeared on Tradition Home Care.

5 New Year’s Resolutions for Family Caregivers

By Ariene Malicdem • January 23, 2023

Being a family caregiver can be taxing, both physically and emotionally. Therefore, setting resolutions and taking time to care for yourself is crucial. By becoming the best version of yourself, you will be more present and available to assist your loved ones. Here are five New Year’s resolutions for family caregivers that will help you stay healthy, happy, and productive… The post 5 New Year’s Resolutions for Family Caregivers first appeared on Tradition Home Care.

Hats off to Family Caregivers

By Ariene Malicdem • November 28, 2022

Although caregiving can be an incredibly rewarding experience, it can also be stressful and emotionally draining. Family caregivers often juggle a wide variety of responsibilities, including managing medical appointments, providing personal care services, and taking on unexpected tasks. It’s not always easy for family caregivers to ask for help or accept support, and we want to commend you for all… The post Hats off to Family Caregivers first appeared on Tradition Home Care.

Four Ways to Keep Your Mind Sharp This Autumn

By Ariene Malicdem • October 20, 2022

Autumn is one of the best times of the year. The leaves change color, the air gets cooler, and the holidays are just around the corner. However, autumn can also bring a little mental fog to seniors. It’s easy to feel sluggish and less sharp due to earlier nights and less sunlight. The good news is that seniors can do… The post Four Ways to Keep Your Mind Sharp This Autumn first appeared on Tradition Home Care.

What It Means to Be a Professional Caregiver

By Ariene Malicdem • October 7, 2022

Choosing to work as a professional caregiver often means you are choosing a job that is physically demanding. Yet, it is also a job that is extremely rewarding. Many professional caregivers experience pride and joy in their role as a caregiver, despite the negative connotations associated with the job. Professional caregivers play an integral role in helping the senior population.… The post What It Means to Be a Professional Caregiver first appeared on Tradition Home Care.

Medicaid Home Care Benefits With A Pooled Trust You Can Trust

By THC • March 24, 2021

Medicaid pooled trusts are strictly regulated by federal and state law and are managed by trustees familiar with these regulations. However, not all trustees are alike. So, take time to vet the pooled trusts you are considering, to develop the right comfort level. Click below to learn more… https://ktstrust.org/medicaid-home-care-benefits-with-a-pooled-trust-you-can-trust/ The post Medicaid Home Care Benefits With A Pooled Trust You Can Trust first appeared on Tradition Home Care.