Holidays

The holiday season is in full swing, which means that it’s time for the not-so-holly-jolly holiday shopping season. While we all have these images in our heads of brightly wrapped packages, beautiful storefront windows and a magical feeling in the air, the truth is that buying gifts at this time of year can be stressful, annoying and – especially for seniors who have difficulty getting around for a variety of reasons – time consuming and even unsafe.

As the holiday season approaches, our thoughts often turn to visiting friends and family. Whether it’s a short trip across town or a cross-country trip by plane, visiting loved ones makes the holidays merry and bright. But if you’re a caregiver for someone with dementia or another form of memory loss, travel requires more than a little preparation, patience and determination. 

The holiday season is approaching faster than we even realize, bringing with it Halloween candy, loads of turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, plenty of pies, Christmas cookies and, of course, some extra unwanted pounds. The holidays can be hectic and tempting, leaving little time to exercise and continue an exercise routine, or so you think. Although there may be plenty of parties, feasts and activities to take part in, it’s still possible to keep up with or adapt your current routine to fit your holiday needs.

The holiday seasons are often full of excitement, nostalgia and good cheer. Family may come to visit or you may travel to see them. The home may be full of wonderful scents and holiday movies or festive music may be playing. It’s truly a wonderful time of year for those of all ages; however, for those with memory loss, the holidays can mean something else entirely.

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The holidays are swiftly approaching, bringing all the joy, stress and sometimes anxiety, that the holidays have a tendency to bring. As a caregiver, it can be even harder to take the time and enjoy the season and all of the activities because of the added stress of caring for your loved one. You may wonder what activities you can involve your loved one in, because of the complexities of their memory loss.

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Celebrations are an important part of anyone’s life. For Milestones, such as holidays, special events and birthdays, it is important to include your loved one. Sometimes, even the little things, such as immersing yourself in activities and taking care of your health, can be worth celebrating because of the independence and good feelings that occur as a result.

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Sue Sunderland, Executive Director at the soon to open The Bridges at Warwick in Jamison, Pa., says, “The holiday season is a time of excitement and anticipation, punctuated by a unique spirit in the air. It is a special time for family, friends and sharing the joys and blessings of the season.

“However, for families caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, the holidays can also bring special challenges, often in the form of emotional stress.