Holiday caregivers

The holidays are times for family gatherings and happy memories, but for families caring for loved ones with memory impairment, the holidays may be filled with stress and frustration. To assist families and people coping with Alzheimer's during the holidays, the Florida Gulf Cost Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association developed 10 survival tips:

If you're caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's at home, host a quiet gathering. Television, conversation and meal preparation may make the environment noisy or over-stimulating. To avoid disorientation, tone down blinking lights and large decorative displays. Avoid candles and decorations such as artificial fruits that could be mistaken for edible treats.

Involve the person with the disease in holiday preparations to the extent they are comfortable. Open holiday cards and wrap gifts together.

Caregivers also must consider their needs. Bake fewer cookies or ask others to help with meals. Let family members and friends help with cleaning and shopping for gifts. Ask a close friend to stay with your loved one while you do something fun.

You can't control the progress of Alzheimer's, but by planning and setting firm boundaries, you can avoid needless holiday stress and enjoy the warmth of the season.

For the complete article of the 10 Holiday Survival Tips developed by the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, visit www.alz.org/FlGulfCoast or call 1-800-772-8672.

Lisa Rodriguez
Program Specialist
Sebring