Aging parents (5)
- Aging parents: 10 things to know for an emergency
- Aging parents: 5 warning signs of health problems
- Malnutrition and seniors: When a relative doesn't eat enough
- see all in Aging parents
Alzheimer's caregiver (21)
- Alzheimer's disease: Anticipating end-of-life needs
- Alzheimer's caregiving: Maintain your support network
- Alzheimer's: Getting the most from medical appointments
- see all in Alzheimer's caregiver
Mayo Clinic Health Manager
Get free personalized health guidance for you and your family.
Get Started
Mayo Clinic Housecall
Stay up to date on the latest health information.
What you get
- Free weekly e-newsletter
- Mayo Clinic expertise
- Recipes, tools and other helpful information
- We do not share your e-mail address
Alzheimer's: Planning for the holidays
Holidays can be bittersweet for families affected by Alzheimer's. These tips can make special times easier for everyone.
By Mayo Clinic staffAlzheimer's disease affects every aspect of your family and community life. Your holiday observances are no exception. Holiday memories from before your loved one developed Alzheimer's may darken what usually is a joyful season. And worries about how your loved one's condition may disrupt your family's plans can overshadow the simple pleasure of being together.
Rather than dwell on how much things have changed or worry about what might go wrong, focus on making the holidays as enjoyable as possible. Consider your loved one's needs, but don't forget about yourself.
When your loved one lives with you
If you're caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's at home:
- Make preparations together. If you bake, your loved one may be able to participate by measuring flour, stirring batter, rolling dough or whatever tasks match their current retained skills. You may find it meaningful to open holiday cards or wrap gifts together. In the end, a perfectly wrapped gift or an award-winning pie may not be the outcome, but a pleasurable activity nonetheless is very possible.
- Tone down your decorations. Blinking lights and large decorative displays can cause disorientation. Avoid lighted candles and decorations such as artificial fruits that could be mistaken for edible treats.
- Host quiet, slow-paced gatherings. Television, conversation and meal preparation all add to the noise and stimulation of an event. A calm quiet environment usually is best. Keep daily routines in place as much as possible and, as needed, provide your loved one a place to rest during family get-togethers.
If your loved one is in a nursing home
If your spouse, parent or other close companion is in an assisted living facility or a nursing home, consider these tips:
- Celebrate in the most familiar setting. For many people with Alzheimer's, a change of environment — even a visit home — causes anxiety. Instead of creating that disruption, consider holding a small family celebration at the facility. Find out what holiday activities are planned for the residents, and consider participating with your loved one there.
- Keep the visitor traffic to a minimum. Arrange for a few family members to drop in on different days. Even if your loved one isn't sure who's who, two or three familiar faces are likely to be welcome, while nine or 10 may be overwhelming.
- Schedule visits at your loved one's best time of day. People with Alzheimer's tire easily, particularly as they approach the late stage of the disease. Your loved one may appreciate morning and lunchtime visitors more than those in the afternoon or evening.
(1 of 2)
