It’s almost here, and I’d better share quickly so you can use these ideas for the big event. Or pass them on. Or maybe next year.
On the Ninth Day of Christmas, Dementia Gave to Me…Christmas Cards
I can’t remember the last time I sent physical Christmas cards. Many years ago, I switched to a newsletter by mail, then by email, then dropped it completely. A few years were too painful to write about, and now I keep up with most of my friends regularly on social media.
My mother lived in another world, though. Not only did she send physical cards, she spent hours writing long, personal notes in each. Sometimes it was January before she had them finished, but everyone got a personalized card in her beautiful handwriting.
For many elders, this daunting task is important. How can you help and still involve them?
- Gather information from them and put together a letter. Have them pick out a few card designs, and perhaps put on the stamps.
- Have your elder write out their name once, and have it made into a stamp to “sign” the cards.
- Take a picture of your elder in front of the tree and have copies made to include in the cards.
On the Tenth Day of Christmas, Dementia Gave to Me…Christmas Baking
Before you run away screaming, hear me out. I love to bake, but I understand that’s not the case for everyone. For some elders, the ritual of fancy Christmas cookies and bars had as important a place as the tree or the presents. How can you modify it and still make it meaningful?
- Choose one favourite “traditional” treat from your family’s history. Shortbreads? Decorated sugar cookies? Set aside time to make them and involve your elder to the best of their ability.
- Make something simple like Rice Krispie Squares with Christmas sprinkles. Involve grandchildren if possible.
- In my newsletter this month, I will be sharing a simple and easy cookie recipe made from a cake mix. Don’t miss it!
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On the Eleventh Day of Christmas, Dementia Gave to Me…Socializing
Visiting with family and friends is an important part of the holidays, and handled correctly, it can be meaningful for some elders. Keep it simple. In general, small groups work better than large family gatherings, but if you’d like to try a large group, create a “safe space” which can be a retreat for your elder if the noise and confusion becomes too much. Have a plan B if they need to leave, and watch them for signs of weariness.
On the Twelfth Day of Christmas, Dementia Gave to Me…Now.
If you care for an elder, a huge temptation, especially at significant events like holidays, is to look to the future. Alzheimer’s and other dementias are progressive and debilitating. It’s a temptation to look at the past, realize the changes you are seeing, and start to dwell on “the ghosts of Christmas yet to come.” The question, “Where will we be in another year?” can haunt you.
Give yourself the gift of now. You have today with your elder. Smile, laugh, hug, reminisce, tell them how important they are. Make today a good day.
My final gift to you this season is a video which I believe is the absolute best this year.
Let’s make today a good day.
Merry Christmas, everyone!
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