 Holiday celebrations are often joyous occasions, but
they can also be challenging and stressful for the 588,000
caregivers providing care for the 230,000 people living with
Alzheimer’s in Illinois. Families and friends may be unsure of how
to involve their loved one with Alzheimer’s in activities without
overwhelming them (or others). The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois
Chapter tells families that with some planning and adjusted
expectations, the holidays can still be happy and memorable
occasions for everyone.
A few tips from the Association include:
Make sure others know: Let guests know what to expect before
they arrive and tell them how they can help. For example, what
activities can they do with the person with Alzheimer’s or how best
to communicate with them.
Build on traditions and memories: Take time to experiment
with new traditions that might be less stressful or a better fit
with your caregiving responsibilities. For example, if evening
confusion and agitation are a problem, turn your holiday dinner into
a holiday lunch.
Involve the person with Alzheimer’s:
Depending on abilities and preferences, make sure to keep the person
with Alzheimer’s involved in the celebrations, such as packing
cookies in tins or helping wrap gifts.
Plan ahead: When attending a holiday party,
prepare the host for special needs, such as a quiet room for the
person to rest in away from the noise and distractions.
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 More tips and information are
also available at: https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/holidays
About the Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter:
The Alzheimer’s Association® is the world’s leading voluntary health
organization in Alzheimer’s research, care and support. Our mission
is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of
research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected;
and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain
health. The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter covers an
87-county area with offices in Chicago, Joliet, Rockford,
Springfield, Bloomington, Peoria, Quincy and Southern Illinois.
Since 1980, the Chapter has provided reliable information and care
consultation; created supportive services for families; increased
funding for dementia research; and influenced public policy changes.
The Illinois Chapter serves more than half a million Illinois
residents affected by Alzheimer's disease, including more than
220,000 Illinois residents living with the disease. Our vision is a
world without Alzheimer's®. For more information visit www.alz.org/illinois
or call our free 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.
[Elizabeth Cook
Senior Manager, Media Relations]
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