South Middlesex Times

The holiday season, while joyful for many, can bring additional stress to those caring for family members with dementia. Mary-Catherine Lundquist, the program director of Care2Caregivers, a helpline operated by Rutgers Behavioral Health Care, offers guidance on navigating this challenging time.

Lundquist suggests that families adjust their expectations and understand that it's acceptable to do things differently. "You can scale back on decorating, cooking and shopping," she advises. For instance, caregivers might opt for simpler decorations like a wreath or tabletop tree and consider purchasing premade food to save time.

When it comes to family gatherings, Lundquist emphasizes being mindful of the time of day due to potential sundowning symptoms in individuals with memory loss. She recommends scheduling activities when the person is more alert and keeping visits short to avoid overstimulation.

Preparing visitors for changes in their loved ones is also crucial. Lundquist encourages clear communication about any differences they might notice compared to previous years. Specific examples include informing them if the individual isn't talking much or may not recognize them.

Connecting with the meaning of the season remains important despite changes in circumstances. "Holidays are an invitation to pause and be grateful," Lundquist notes. She suggests making a gratitude list as a way to honor the spirit of the season.

Including family members with dementia in activities can still be meaningful. Simple tasks like helping with baking or singing familiar songs together can provide shared experiences.

For those supporting caregivers, offering help is vital. Asking for assistance should be seen as a strength rather than a weakness. Specific requests such as cleaning tasks or providing respite care are encouraged.

"The best gift we can give to someone with memory loss and their caregiver is our presence," says Lundquist. Spending time together helps combat loneliness often felt by both individuals with memory loss and their caregivers.

In summary, during this festive period, being present and supportive can make a significant difference for families dealing with dementia-related challenges.

For further support and resources, contact Care2Caregivers at 800-424-2494 or visit www.copsainstitute.com.