The holidays are always hectic, but if you’re caring for a parent or a loved one with Alzheimer’s or
dementia, it’s likely you’re dealing with added layers of stress. Unhappy emotions — anger, guilt,
sadness — may bubble to the surface at a time when it seems as if everyone else is feeling festive.
Experts agree: the best way to cope with holiday stress is to plan ahead. Cut out activities that will
likely add to your stress, and focus on the ones you know you’ll enjoy. That should help you handle
the holidays more calmly and smoothly.
Consider these ideas for a happier holiday season:
• Set realistic expectations. Don’t worry if you can’t do everything the way you’ve always done it.
• Ask for help. Do you always cook the big family meal for the holiday? This may be the year to pass
the tradition along to another family member or make it a family activity and do it together.
• If you expect out-of-town visitors who haven’t seen your loved one recently, consider making a
call or sending a note to update them on your loved one’s current situation. This can prepare
them emotionally if his or her condition has worsened.
• Take extra care with children who will visit. Explain how Alzheimer’s or dementia affects
Grandma or Grandpa, and prepare them for behavior they might not expect or understand.
• Take care of your own physical and mental health, so that you can be a good caregiver.
• Schedule quiet time. Allow time to pause, away from crowds and noise. Your loved one will
need it, and so will you.
