CAREGIVER TIPS FOR THE HOLIDAYS
We Are Here To Help…..
We understand the diverse nature of residents with memory impairments and focus on increased supervision, stimulation and personal assistance. When Alzheimer’s or dementia touches one individual, it touches everyone!!
Preparing the person with Alzheimer’s disease:
Talk about and show pictures of the people who are coming to visit.
Play familiar holiday music and serve favorite traditional holiday favorites.
People with Alzheimer’s may recognize faces of family members and friends but may be unable to recall names. Name tags are helpful.
Have a “quiet” room if things get too hectic and have a familiar person stay with them so they don’t feel isolated or left out.
Prepare for distractions beforehand to divert attention if problem behaviors occur.
Preparing Visitors:
Encourage them to visit, but ask that they call ahead to make sure it is a good time.
Celebrate early in the day or have a holiday lunch rather than dinner to reduce the likelihood of Sundowner Syndrome from occurring.
Familiarize family & visitors with behavior and conditions beforehand.
Try not to have too many people over at one time, which may be overwhelming.
If You Are Visiting:
Watch for signs of fatigue and agitation and shorten the length of your stay.
Bring photographs, holiday treats, a favorite record or other things to share.
Don’t talk about your problems or depressing topics, or about their condition.
Encourage reminiscence; engage the Alzheimer’s patient in conversation. Often those with Alzheimer’s will remember events from the past, but may not remember anything that happened 30 minutes ago.
Ask the caregiver the best time of day to visit.
Offer to do something for the caregiver (run an errand, prepare food, etc.)
Give of yourself.
Call Emeritus at Atherton Court in Fremont to learn more about our specific programs, like “Join Their Journey” and how you can make a difference.
Atherton Court
38035 Martha Avenue
Fremont, CA 94536
(510) 797-4011
License#: 015601255
