The holiday season is a time for celebration, togetherness, reflection, and tradition. For those living with dementia, their caregivers, and families concerned about a loved one’s cognitive health, the holidays can also bring stress, confusion, and uncertainty.

If you’re caring for someone with dementia or if you’re noticing cognitive changes in a loved one during holiday gatherings, it’s important to be aware of potential signs of dementia and to plan ahead for a smoother, safer holiday season. Here’s what you need to know.

Cognitive Concerns to Watch For

When families reunite after time apart, it’s often the first time they will notice changes in a loved one’s memory or behavior. The Alzheimer’s Association offers a resource titled “Know the 10 Signs,” which can help families differentiate between signs of significant cognitive decline and normal age-related memory lapses. Signs to watch for include:

1.    Memory loss that disrupts daily life

2.    Challenges in planning or solving problems

3.    Difficulty completing familiar tasks

4.    Confusion with time or place

5.    Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

6.    New problems with words in speaking or writing

7.    Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

8.    Decreased or poor judgment

9.    Withdrawal from work or social activities

10.    Changes in mood or personality

If you or a family member notice these warning signs, schedule a doctor’s appointment to evaluate whether they are cause for concern. For more information on these warning signs and how they differ from typical age-related changes, visit alz.org/10signs.

Managing the Holidays as a Dementia Caregiver

Holiday plans mean changes in routine, new or unfamiliar places, and social environments that can be overwhelming. All these elements can significantly impact the behavior and health of individuals living with dementia and those who serve as their caregivers. Here are some proactive steps you can take to manage stress and ensure a safe and happy holiday season.

1.    Maintain a consistent routine

Routines are essential for individuals with dementia, but the added activities and expectations of the holiday season can make them difficult to maintain. To limit disruption and confusion, stick as closely as possible to regular mealtimes, sleep schedules, and other daily activities.

2.    Keep it simple

Large crowds, loud noises, and bright lights can be overwhelming for individuals living with dementia. When possible, opt for smaller, simpler, and quieter gatherings to reduce stress.

3.    Set realistic expectations

Update family members on changes in the health and behavior of loved ones with dementia. Be upfront about potential challenges, such as memory lapses and safety concerns, and give suggestions on how to communicate effectively.

4.    Prioritize safety

Shorter days, colder temperatures, unfamiliar spaces, and added stress can cause problems for loved ones living with dementia. Remove tripping hazards and dangerous items, clear walkways of snow and ice, and provide weather-appropriate clothing. Ensure exits are secured to prevent wandering.

5.    Make time for self-care

Dementia caregivers often put others’ needs before their own. The added stress of the holidays may leave them feeling exhausted and emotional. Take time during the season to relax and recharge. Taking walks or quiet breaks away from the festivities, scheduling time outside the home for other enjoyable activities, and maintaining healthy diet and sleep habits can all help manage caregiver stress.

Conclusion

The holidays can be stressful under the best of circumstances. However, for dementia caregivers or those concerned about signs of cognitive decline, the extra strain can be significant. Knowing the signs of dementia, planning ahead, and maintaining effective communication can help limit these stressors and keep the season bright.

Riverside Healthcare is here for your senior health needs. Call Riverside Internal & Geriatric Medicine at 815-928-5090 to schedule a geriatric assessment, which can identify a variety of issues, including memory loss. For information on senior living, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care, visit riversideseniorlife.com.