To the Journal editor:

We know that the holiday season can be a difficult time for families living with Alzheimer’s. Caregiving responsibilities layered on top of keeping up with expectations of holiday traditions can take its toll on families living with Alzheimer’s. It is normal to actively feel the current losses Alzheimer’s has brought, as well anticipating the losses to come. Here are some tips for the upcoming season:

1. Plan ahead to avoid excess holiday stress

Discuss holiday celebrations with people in advance. Plans to maintain a routine, keeping traditions in place with flexibility increase a better experience for everyone. Some families prefer to celebrate early in the day rather than a later dinner. It’s okay to not cook the turkey at your home if it reduces stress for everyone!

2. It’s okay to prepare for the family gathering

Preparing your loved one for the events can allow both of you to enjoy the warmth of the season. Use photos of family members and friends who will be visiting to help remember names and faces. Familiar music and traditional holiday foods are also helpful. Having a quiet room during a gathering or scheduling visit times can help people not feel overwhelmed or anxious.

3. Prepare family members and friends. Preparing families and friends with an honest appraisal of the person’s condition can help avoid uncomfortable or harmful situations. Help people know that ‘quizzing the person’ is not helpful. Always offer your name when you come to visit, be ready to lead the conversation or an activity and offering the caregiver a break are beautiful gifts to give.

4. Communicate with success. It’s helpful to be calm and supportive if the person has trouble communicating. Speak slowly with a relaxed tone and address the individual by name. Be patient, flexible, and never argue with the person with Alzheimer’s!

For example, when someone forgets a recent conversation, avoid saying, “Don’t you remember?” Offer ‘clues’ to shared memories, like “remember how hot it was that day at the quarry when we were fishing?”

Families can also call the Alzheimer’s Association at 906-228-3910 or our 24-hour Helpline at 800-772-8672, 365 days of the year, or go to www.alz.org.

From all of us at the Alzheimer’s Association – Greater Michigan Chapter in the U.P., wishes for Joy and Peace at the holidays and throughout the New Year!

Clarissa Bean

Social work intern

Marquette