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Alzheimer’s
Association Tips on Navigating the Holidays with Someone
Living with Alzheimer’s or Dementia
While holidays can be a
joyous time for many families, they can be challenging for
families affected by Alzheimer’s. The current COVID-19
crisis is adding even more complexities that can feel
overwhelming for many families impacted by Alzheimer’s.
But Pam Myers, program
director for the Alzheimer’s Association Northwest Ohio
Chapter, said caregivers need to look for ways to de-stress
by creating new traditions and finding new ways for their
family members to help make this season satisfying for all.
"At the end of the day, support your caregivers- talk with
them find out what they need, such as buying gifts or
baking/food preparation- be a support for them during this
busy time," Myers said.
While Alzheimer’s and
dementia does not increase the risk of COVID-19,
dementia-related behaviors, increased age and common health
conditions that often accompany dementia, may increase
risk. To help families navigate these challenges and provide
a meaningful and enjoyable holiday season, the Alzheimer’s
Association recommends the following tips to make the
holidays enjoyable and safe for all:
Talk to Your Family:
As caregivers consider options for the holiday, Myers
suggests that they arrange a group discussion via telephone,
video call or email for family and friends to discuss
holiday celebrations in advance. Everyone needs to
understand your caregiving situation, the safety precautions
you’re taking to help keep your loved one healthy and set
realistic expectations about what you can and cannot do.
Modify and Adjust:
No one should expect you to maintain every holiday tradition
or event, especially during a pandemic. Do what is
manageable and safe. Schedule your own “holiday parade” and
ask family members and friends to drive with homemade signs
or other festive decorations. Take a ride to go see holiday
lights.
Involve the Person Living with Dementia: Ask him or her to help
you prepare food, wrap packages, help decorate or set the
table. FYI blinking lights may also confuse the person.
Use Technology to your Advantage: Record and send a
holiday video greeting to family and friends. Schedule a
time for several households to watch a favorite movie and
share comments over the phone. If not gathering in person,
determine who is best to coordinate and assist all
with being able to manage the technology and participate.
Take Extra Precautions for In-Person Gatherings: If you choose to
include older adults in an in-person holiday gathering, it
is critical to weigh the risks to their health. Even when
precautions are taken, close contact with anyone outside of
your household increases the risk of spreading COVID-19.
Consider the following if you choose to include older adults
in a face-to-face gathering:
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Do not attend or host a gathering if you have been (or think
you have been) exposed to COVID-19.
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Ask attendees to avoid or strictly limit contact with others
for 14 days prior to your gathering.
The Alzheimer’s
Association is available 24/7 to answer these and other
questions. For immediate help, call the Association’s
Helpline at 800.272.3900.
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