CONNECTICUT, USA — As Thanksgiving approaches, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, or AFA, is offering caregivers five key tips to help make this holiday season enjoyable for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia-related illnesses.
“Families caring for a loved one with dementia deserve to celebrate Thanksgiving together,” said Jennifer Reeder, LCSW, AFA’s director of educational and social services. “By being proactive and prepared, caregivers can create a safe, comfortable, and engaging environment for their loved one during the festivities.”
AFA’s tips for a dementia-friendly Thanksgiving include:
1. Schedule early and follow routine: Plan the celebration earlier in the day to avoid late-afternoon agitation. Stick to familiar routines to make your loved ones feel more comfortable.
2. Prepare everyone involved: Familiarize your loved one with guests in advance, share details about the event and provide information about how best to communicate with your loved one.
3. Keep your loved ones involved: Adapt activities so that they can participate in the celebration, such as setting the table or helping with simple dishes. Playing familiar music or looking through old photos can also bring joy.
4. Provide a quiet space: Set up a quiet area for your loved one to retreat to if the event becomes overwhelming, complete with comforting items like a favorite blanket or stuffed animal.
5. Plan for help: Don’t hesitate to ask friends and family for assistance, whether it’s helping with cooking, shopping or spending time with your loved one.
For additional guidance on creating a dementia-friendly holiday, caregivers can contact the AFA’s Helpline at (866) 232-8484 or visit alzfdn.org.
Do you have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET FOX61 NEWS
Download the FOX61 News APP
Apple App Store: Click here to download
Google Play: Click here to download
Stream Live on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching FOX61.
Stream Live on FIRE TV: Search ‘FOX61’ and click ‘Get’ to download.
