It's perfectly normal to be forgetful when going holiday shopping. However, the situation can be worse when presenting symptoms of early-stage dementia. In addition, the festive season can offer lots of new challenges for someone with dementia, given the hustle and bustle of the streets and stores.
But do not let that discourage you. If you are fighting early-stage Dementia and would love to do your holiday shopping this year, getting organized is paramount.
We have listed some top tips and strategies to make your experience much less frustrating the next time you go holiday shopping. Let's dive in.
Have a List
Shopping lists are often great shopping aids for people with dementia. However, living with dementia can make it very challenging for you to shop at the drop of a hat like you used to. What's more, actively remembering what you need for your holidays versus what you already have in your home can make the process even more difficult.
One way to stay organized when shopping during the festive season is to write down everything you need. There is no shame in admitting that you are bound to forget some things. The good news is that you can always add them to your list later. So, whether you are going food shopping or want to get gifts for friends and family, having a list is a great way to ensure you remember essential items.
Do Not Shop During Busy Times
To avoid human and car traffic, it's best to go holiday shopping during the quieter days. Do not shop on Fridays and over the weekends. Instead, you can shop at the start of the week or midweek. You can also try shopping in the morning when most people are at work.
Some shops will set aside quiet hours for persons with special needs where they reduce the glare of the bright lights, turn down loud music, and have a quiet checkout line where shoppers can take as much time as they need. So, it's a good idea to do your research beforehand.
Reminders are Your Best Friend
Smartphone applications that provide valuable reminders for people in their early stages of dementia can be beneficial tools. You can use numerous apps to set reminders on your phone or tablet. Alternatively, you can request a family member or friend to remind you of important things at a particular time.
Enjoy Your Holidays with Senior Helpers of Rockville
The holidays are both a busy and a joyous time for everyone. At Senior Helpers of Rockville, we are more than happy to take the stress away from it all. If you or someone you know requires at-home care in Rockville, Bethesda, Gaithersburg, Hyattsville, Potomac, Montgomery County, Washington DC, and Silver Spring, contact us.
We can offer you much-needed companionship and assist you with activities of daily living while allowing you to lead an independent life. At Senior Helpers of Rockville, we also specialize in caring for those living with dementia.