Making Holidays Joyful for Loved Ones with Dementia
Episode Overview
Prioritise traditions that bring joy and simplify holiday plans. Create quiet spaces to avoid overwhelming loved ones with dementia. Incorporate familiar items during travel to comfort those with memory concerns. Plan ahead and communicate with family members about holiday expectations. Focus on caregiver self-care to ensure they can be present and supportive.
It's crucial to prioritise and simplify – don't feel like you have to do it all because then you are able to step away and enjoy the moment.
The holiday season can be a mixed bag of emotions, especially for families caring for loved ones with dementia. In this episode of 'Healthy YOU!', host Frankye Myers, Chief Nurse Executive at Riverside Health System, sits down with Amanda Gada, Memory Care Navigator at Riverside’s Martha W. Goodson Center. They dive into the challenges and joys of navigating memory care during the festive season, offering practical strategies to ensure a meaningful and positive experience for everyone involved.
Amanda shares her journey to becoming a Memory Care Navigator, emphasising the importance of having a consistent point of contact for families dealing with dementia. She highlights the necessity of prioritising traditions that bring joy and adjusting plans to avoid overwhelming those with memory concerns. Amanda’s advice is packed with actionable tips – from creating quiet spaces to incorporating familiar items during travel – ensuring that caregivers can manage the holidays without stress.
The episode also underscores the significance of self-care for caregivers. Amanda talks about 'filling up their cup' – finding activities or hobbies that rejuvenate them so they can be present for their loved ones. The conversation touches on the importance of planning ahead, communicating with family members, and being flexible with holiday traditions. Amanda’s insights are not just for the holidays but offer a blueprint for year-round care.
By focusing on what truly matters and managing expectations, families can create a supportive environment that honours both the caregiver and the loved one with dementia. If you’re looking for ways to make this holiday season special while caring for a loved one with dementia, this episode is a must-listen. It’s filled with compassionate advice and practical tips to help you navigate these unique challenges.
Why not give it a listen and see how you can make your holiday season both joyful and manageable?