If your loved one has dementia, it can be hard to plan and enjoy the holidays. It may even be stressful for seniors who have dementia. It will be important to find the right senior home care assistant to help out during this time. A caregiver can help give the senior rides to family functions and help keep their routines somewhat stable during the busy time. One of the most important things to remember during this time is that the family needs to remain flexible.
Depending on the stage of dementia, not all seniors will want to go out and do things, but you should always visit during the holidays. Socialization and being part of the family is still a key aspect in life even for those who suffer from dementia. Keep things light, fun, and casual, and remember to be flexible with plans.
Families should keep in mind that the holidays always bring extra work and worry for caregivers. They will have to do a lot more to help the senior with dementia keep up with the whole family, and it is crucial for the family and caregiver to have open communication. This is the best way to ensure the seniors make it to family functions, or you get to see your parents during the holidays.
Keeping it Simple This Holiday
The Holidays can be stressful, and too much stress can be bad for a senior with dementia. It can make them aggravated, angry, or upset. So, the best thing to do is keep it simple. Tone things down, or visit in their own homes when the senior home care provider is with them. You can easily remind them of the holiday and celebrate it in different ways. Bring leftover Thanksgiving meals, early presents, or a happy new year card.
Tone Down the Decor
Clutter can be hard to navigate for a senior with dementia and may be a hazard. Blinking lights can cause too much confusion or aggravate a senior. If you plan on having your parents or loved one over for multiple events, keep the decor simple and to the point. A senior home care assistant will help ensure the senior is safe during the event. Still, you should focus on creating a safe and peaceful environment.
Turn Up the Christmas Music
Seniors have favorite songs, and during the holidays, it might even help jog their memories. If they hear a song, they love it’s time to turn it up. However, keep in mind the volume should be fun and relaxing, not loud and stressful.
Do Things Together
Prepping things together, baking, cooking under close supervision, and even decorating Santa cookies can be very relaxing. It is a fun way to get the seniors to socialize with the family and still be able to celebrate the holiday.
Keep it Brief
Not all seniors will be able to spend hours and hours with your family during the holiday. This can be sad, but you have to ensure the senior is comfortable. Senior home care providers will let you know how long a visit can be and help take the senior home if you are busy making other arrangements.
If you or an aging loved one needs senior home care services near Rancho Cordova, CA, remember Senior Home Care Services. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.
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