Happy, Healthy Holidays: Tips for Caregivers

Holidays can be difficult for anyone dealing with the changes of Alzheimer's, or any ailment, really. They are also stressful times for caregivers trying to maintain traditions.

Below are suggestions to help keep your holidays happy, memorable and safe for you and your loved ones.

Be reasonable

Not every tradition has to be maintained exactly as it has been for years. Sit down as a family and generate a list of reasonable activities and divide the work. Allow yourself to be open to changes and simplification without guilt so there is more time and energy to enjoy the holiday.

Be upfront

Holidays bring together large families who might not be up-to-date. Make sure any guests are prepared for any changes in your loved one. Suggesting how they might communicate with this person will ease tension and make the event more comfortable for everyone.

Be Safe

• Make sure you do some seasonal safety inventory.
• Don't forget your fireplace. Tending a fire may not be able to be done safely. Remove firewood, lighter fluid, and matches and store them in a safe, remote location.
• Don't use blinking lights. They may confuse your loved one.
• Avoid candles, fake fruit, or other edible decorations.
• Warn guests about unsafe gifts and animals.

Get others involved in caregiving

Make suggestions to family and friends of useful and appropriate gifts for your loved one, such as identification bracelets, photo albums, or music. A gift for you of a few hours of respite is also a good suggestion.

Make travel plans simple

Airline travel may be too stressful for both you and your loved one. Try short car trips if visits to out-of-town relatives are in your plans. And try to keep to daily routines whenever possible.