Family members still want their elderly loved one to feel a part of the holiday cheer even if they have dementia. Family members don't want them to be bored or uninterested, but they also don't want them to get too worked up.
The post will examine four suggestions to assist family members in modifying holiday activities for seniors with dementia.
1. Overstimulation Due to Large Groups
Someone with dementia may get overwhelmed by a large gathering due to the overwhelming number of people, the loud noises, and the hectic pace of events. Don't feel obligated to stick to the same routines year after year if altering things would assist an elderly loved one in maintaining a peaceful disposition.
A better idea than throwing one huge party is to stretch out the celebrations over the course of a couple of weeks and invite smaller groups of relatives to each get-together. Invite close relatives and no more.
2. Changes in Schedules
The elderly will be at their best at certain times of the day. Select the most significant celebrations and plan them when the elderly loved one is most alert and able to participate.
Host the holiday celebration in the morning if they grow upset in the evening. Alternately, if the elderly loved one sleeps late and struggles to get out of bed in the morning, it may be best to have the get-together in the evening.
3. Activities That Seniors Don't Enjoy
Prepare events that a senior loved one has shown interest in before to make them feel more welcome. Make it a family affair by hosting a cookie-baking party. Or, if football is a popular pastime, have a viewing party.
Aside from games, many people living with dementia enjoy listening to music. Music can bring people of all ages together, whether it's a sing-along of the loved one's favorite songs, a dance party in their honor, or just playing some of their favorite tracks.
4. Diet Changes
Many seniors have digestive problems that are difficult to handle. There are plenty of tempting delicacies during holiday feasts, but it may be best to avoid serving them anything that is too much beyond their regular diet.
There's a risk that fatty meals and alcohol may make their stomach hurt. Sugar and alcohol can alter the behavior of seniors living with dementia.
How Senior Helpers Racine Can Help
It can be difficult and unpredictable to spend the holidays with an elderly loved one who has dementia. There is a strong sense of tradition surrounding many holidays, and your initial inclination may be to maintain that sense of familiarity and unity among family members. Yet this can necessitate reevaluation when dealing with a senior living with dementia.
Caring for a senior family member with Alzheimer's disease or another kind of dementia in Racine, Kenosha, Union Grove, or Pleasant Prairie can significantly impact your health. You can trust Senior Helpers of Racine to make life simpler and more pleasurable for you and your loved one, as they are the industry leaders in Alzheimer's and dementia care.
For immediate assistance, please don't hesitate to get in touch with Senior Helpers of Racine.