The Christmas season is a unique time, full of family gatherings and celebrations, but for families with people suffering from Alzheimer's it can present certain challenges. That is why, at the Foundation, we offer solutions and support to caregivers and their relatives with Alzheimer's.
In this sense, Elena de Andrés, psychologist and coordinator of the group programs for caregivers of the Foundation, states that “A repetitive and organised daily routine helps both the person with Alzheimer's and the person caring for them. During these times, this routine is interrupted and doubts may arise about how to deal with the situation, so it is important to try to maintain activities that evoke daily life.
Tips to enjoy the holidays
- Facilitate communication between the affected person. Because Alzheimer’s can make it difficult to organize thoughts, it’s important to avoid open-ended questions like “What do you want to do for Christmas?” or “What would you like to eat?” Instead, ask specific questions that can be answered with a yes or no, such as “Would you like to see the Christmas lights?” or “Would you like to listen to Christmas carols?” Also, offering limited options like “Would you rather wear your Santa hat or your scarf?” can simplify responses. When communication is impaired, these types of strategies make it easier for the person to feel understood and avoid potential frustration.
- Plan simple menus and stick to regular schedules. Family meals can be exhausting for those living with Alzheimer's, so it is advisable to cook simple dishes and maintain regular meal times. Offering foods that are easy to chew and digest, and that are also pleasing to the person, can be key to maintaining their well-being.
- Emotionally positive environment and avoid stressful situations. Mood can also be affected during the holidays. As the disease progresses, a person with Alzheimer's may experience anything from apathy to anxiety or irritability. In this regard, it is important to maintain a positive emotional environment and avoid stressful situations. Since emotions can be contagious, a person with Alzheimer's may end up "reproducing" the mood and attitudes of those around them, directly influencing their behavior. Creating a calm environment will help reduce anxiety and promote harmony.
- Explain the situation clearly and simply. It is also essential that the entire family, including the youngest, be well informed about the affected person's condition. Explaining the situation in a concise and direct manner and offering basic guidelines for interaction will help all members to relate naturally, without fear or discomfort, fostering an atmosphere of respect and understanding.
- Sharing the responsibility of care. Another key point is support for the caregiver. During the holidays, the workload and care required by a person with Alzheimer's often falls on a single family member. Sharing the responsibility of care and collaborating on the preparations allows everyone to enjoy the celebration while also giving the primary caregiver a much-needed break.
- Perform cognitively stimulating activities. Finally, Christmas dinners are an ideal time to involve the person with Alzheimer's in cognitively stimulating activities. Board games such as chess, checkers, Parcheesi or cards are not only entertaining, but they also help keep the mind active, which is essential to slow down cognitive decline. When choosing a board game, it is important to keep in mind the preferences of the person with Alzheimer's and their abilities.
“Ultimately, Christmas is an opportunity to experience unforgettable moments with our loved ones. With some adjustments and a conscious approach, it is possible to enjoy these celebrations while taking care of the emotional and physical health of the person with Alzheimer's,” concludes Andrés.
