Giving care to a loved one can be difficult, especially if they have unique needs like dementia. Often, caregivers experience burnout and stress, particularly during the holiday season like Thanksgiving and Christmas. It’s a time for celebration, yet caregivers may find it challenging to take a break. This is especially true for family caregivers providing dementia care during holidays, as they rarely get a chance to step away from their responsibilities.
Can we make caregiving during the holiday season a bit easier? Of course! Here’s how…
If you require a break, consider hiring outside assistance.
Dementia Care during Holidays for Loved Ones
You shouldn’t be reluctant to take a break if you are tired and feel like it. Consider employing someone from a professional firm or asking friends, family, or other close associates for assistance. Looking for volunteers is also a good idea. If you select one of the aforementioned options, be sure the new caregiver is well-versed on your loved one’s medical history, care regimen, dietary needs, triggers, preferences, likes, and dislikes, among other things. Also describe any health concerns to be aware of, how to reach you in an emergency, special instructions regarding hospitalisation if necessary, advice on handling any challenging behaviours, etc.
If you are staying home for holidays, try to make caregiving simpler and enjoyable.
If you intend to spend the holidays with the person you are providing care for at home, You can try to make these days enjoyable or at least better. The goal is to maintain the person’s mood and happiness so that you can reduce your stress level. Engaging someone in meaningful activities is the best method to keep them in a good mood.
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If they can, encourage them to participate in the festivities.
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Include them in holiday preparations such as decorating the Christmas tree, creating wall hangings, setting up the crib, etc. To make them feel involved, try to get their input.
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To keep them involved and from becoming bored, try to provide them with brief yet worthwhile and pleasant chores. This will keep them occupied, excite them, improve their mood and sleep, and allow carers to unwind.
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Involve them in activities with a goal that they may enjoy like helping them bake cakes and cookies, make wine, soak fruits, prepare basic meals, etc.
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Make this time a time for reminiscence; Play ancient carols, hymns, and other nostalgic music during this time; you’ll be amazed by their reaction. Ask them about their first holiday memories and celebrations. sing together their favourite old songs.
Social gatherings and engagement around the holidays
Holidays are the best days for social interaction for you and the loved one you are caring for. Setting expectations for family and friends is crucial if you have plans, especially if they want you to attend any celebrations or get-togethers. Let them know in advance when you are available and what time you plan to be there so that it is easy for everyone concerned.
Even if the person you are caring for is wheelchair-bound, try to take them out for celebrations and festivities whenever and wherever you can such as taking them to church, concerts etc. To avoid them feeling lonely, try to find their old friends, former classmates or neighbours who are in the same age group to allow them to enjoy each other’s company. Prevent the elderly from feeling uncomfortable when you have visitors from outside by ensuring they are informed of their presence and any particular instructions to follow when engaging with them. Additionally, make sure that the elderly are always watched over and never left alone.
Even though providing care is a complex and challenging task, we can make it better with some planning and consideration.
Happy holidays!
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