Caregivers can have mixed feelings about holidays. They may have happy memories of the past. But they may also worry about the extra demands that holidays make on their time and energy.
Here are some suggestions to help you find a balance between caring for your memory-impaired loved one and keeping up with the busy holiday season:
- Celebrate holidays that are more important to you. Include your loved one as much as possible.
- Understand that things will be different. Be realistic about what you can do.
- Ask friends and families to visit. Limit the number of visitors at one time. Plan visits when your loved one is at their best.
- Avoid crowds, changes in routines, and strange places that may make your loved one with memory impairment feel confused or nervous.
- Do your best to enjoy yourself. Find time for the holiday activities you like to do. Ask a friend or family member to spend time with your loved one while you are out.
- Make sure there is a space where your loved one can rest when they go to larger gatherings such as weddings or family reunions.