Keeping the Holidays Meaningful: Celebrating with Loves Ones Living with Dementia, Alzheimer's, or Parkinson’s by Dori Laack, Arbor Terrace Crabapple

The holiday season is a time to come together, share traditions, and create moments full of laughter, joy, and happiness. For loved ones living with a cognitive impairment, these celebrations can be wonderful, but they may also feel overwhelming and sometimes scary. The good news it that the connection during this holiday season does not depend on their memory. With a few thoughtful adjustments, or what I like to say, “mindful shifting”, the holidays can still be filled with meaning, warmth, and love with loved ones with a cognitive impairment.

When a loved one is experiencing a cognitive or physical decline, it is helpful to simplify. Focus on the meaningful moments, not the perfect celebrations. Play familiar holiday music, bake a favorite meal or dessert, or look through family photos together. These small touches can bring about comforting memories and a sense of calmness not just for the loved one experiencing a decline but for everyone.

Try to remember the following:

• Connection matters more than perfection

• Be okay if traditions look different than in previous years

• Create a comfortable environment for everyone

• Communicate with compassion and simplicity

• Visit in small groups

What has been found helpful with a loved one that have a cognitive or physical decline, is to try not to correct or challenge their memory. If a loved one mixes up names or times, simply go along with kindness, understanding and a smile. Try to avoid crowded spaces or long visits because this can create stress and agitation and unwanted behavioral challenges. And if you can, try not to focus on the changes, but more about the “right now” with a hug, smile, or even holding hands and dancing. Music is a wonderful way to redirect a loved one with a decline.

Please remember that the holiday season does not depend on perfect memories – it is all about the moments of comfort and happiness, along with being patient. Whether through quiet companionship, music, or even laughter, your presence is the most meaningful gift you can give your loved one.

If your loved one now lives in a senior living community, you can still bring the warmth of home to them. Decorate their apartment with small and safe holiday touches. Place their favorite music or classic holiday movies. Enjoy a meal together in the community dining room or even join a community lead activity. Many communities, like Arbor Terrace Crabapple, host special holiday events, so please join when possible, to create new and shared traditions. If you would like more information about special holiday events at Arbor Terrace Crabapple, please call the community directly at 770-649-1009.

Wishing you and your loved ones peace, comfort, joy, and togetherness this holiday season.

Learn more: https://www.arborcompany.com/locations/georgia/alpharetta-crabapple