Dementia is one of the most difficult diagnoses to process, both for those who are living with it and their loved ones. As Christmas approaches, many adult children may be facing their first holiday season with a parent living with dementia.
The holidays can bring complicated emotions such as grief, sadness, and fear of what might come in the future. It's normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. But, there are ways that adult children can keep the focus on family time and reduce holiday stressors. Here are some FAQs and tips for making this Christmas extra special despite the diagnosis:
FAQs
How Can I Make My Parent With Dementia Feel Included in the Holiday Festivities?
When planning for Christmas, it's important to keep your parent's abilities and preferences in mind. Ask yourself questions such as: What can they still do independently with some assistance? What activities did we always enjoy together at this time of year?
You can also try to make new traditions and memories. For many families, traditions are cherished memories that span generations. While some traditions may need to change or be modified in order to accommodate the changes in your family dynamics, it is still possible to create beautiful memories together. Consider setting aside some time before the holidays begin to discuss what new traditions you want to create together as a family unit in light of recent developments.
How Can We Deal With the Emotions and Stress of the Season?
It's paramount to make time for yourself during this stressful period. Make sure you take breaks, get enough sleep, and eat healthy meals. It can also be helpful to discuss your feelings with a trusted family member or friend. In addition, it helps to recognize that it's perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed by the holidays. It may take some time to adjust to this new normal, and that's okay.
Does It Get Better?
Ultimately, it is up to you and your family to create a plan that works best for everyone. Although the holiday season may be difficult initially, you will find ways to make it enjoyable over time. With some patience, creativity, and understanding, you can learn how to make the holidays special for your parent with dementia and yourself.
Tips for Making Christmas Special
Keep Routines as Normal as Possible
The familiar things we do every day allow us to feel safe and secure, especially those individuals living with dementia. Try not to disrupt daily routines more than necessary throughout the holiday season. This means sticking with regular sleep patterns, avoiding large crowds if possible, and keeping meals on schedule as much as possible. If you must travel during this time of year, plan ahead so that you are well-prepared for any unexpected obstacles or delays along your route.
Focus On Quality Time Together
The most important thing for everyone involved is spending quality time with each other during this special time of year. Make sure that there is plenty of opportunity for individual conversations and interactions between loved ones and family members. Games, activities, storytelling—anything that brings joy and comfort to your family should be embraced during this season. Additionally, focus on offering encouragement and support throughout your gatherings; don't forget that everyone involved is going through something unique yet similar at this time of year due to the diagnosis at hand.
Be Positive
There is power in positive thinking. Instead of letting emotions lead the way, try to focus on what you are truly grateful for this Christmas. Not only will being thankful help keep spirits high, but it will also provide a sense of hope and comfort during a difficult time.
Senior Helpers St. Charles Can Help!
As an adult child whose parent has just been diagnosed with dementia, this first holiday season can understandably feel overwhelming and intimidating at times; however, it doesn't have to be.
Our team of experts here at Senior Helpers St. Charles (St. Charles, St. Peters, Chesterfield, Ballwin, West County, South County, Jefferson County ) can provide the assistance and support needed to ensure your parent's holiday season is still special. Whether it's helping with daily activities, providing companionship, or offering advice on how best to celebrate Christmas with someone diagnosed with dementia; our team is here for you. Call us today to learn more about our services.