11/25/2024
With the holidays approaching and all the hustle & bustle here are some great tips to remember when dealing with our seniors & loved ones affected by dementia. Check them out ! If anyone has questions please reach out. These can be emotional times but there's still safe ways to enjoy the holidays together !!
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Love,
The Rubin Home
Key strategies to manage holidays with a loved one with dementia:
Simplify decorations:
-Avoid excessive decorations, flashing lights, or clutter which can be disorienting.
-Stick to familiar traditions: Incorporate beloved holiday foods, music, and activities from the past.
-Maintain routine: Try to keep their regular schedule as much as possible, including mealtimes and sleep patterns.
-Create a quiet space: Designate a calm area where they can retreat if overwhelmed by the festivities.
-Involve them where possible: Let them participate in simple tasks like decorating cookies or setting the table.
-Prepare guests: Inform family members and friends about their loved one's condition and how to interact with them.
-Use sensory cues: Utilize familiar smells, textures, and music to trigger positive memories.
-Limit crowds and noise: Consider smaller gatherings with less people and controlled noise levels.
-Be patient and supportive: Avoid correcting them if they misremember details, instead, redirect the conversation to a positive topic.
What to avoid:
-Overly stimulating activities: Avoid large gatherings, loud music, or complex games.
-Pressuring them to remember: Don't constantly ask them questions about the past if they struggle to recall.
-Arguing or correcting: Accept their confusion and respond calmly without confrontation.
-Unfamiliar environments: If possible, host the celebration in a familiar setting