The holidays are a stressful time for everyone, especially those who have dementiaas well as their caregivers and loved ones.

Statistics show that in the United States, an estimated 6.7 million people over the age of 65 have Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia.

Meanwhile, nearly 90% of U.S. adults say experiencing stress during the holidays, according to the American Psychological Association.

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“this holiday It can be confusing and overwhelming for those living with dementia, and it can also be a stressful time for the family caregivers who care for them every day,” said Remo, a registered nurse in Ohio. said Jessica Corona-Irwin, a certified dementia practitioner at Health Virtual Dementia Care.

“One-on-one interactions are easier than large group conversations because individuals feel included and valued,” one expert said. (iStock)

“One of the reasons for this is that the holidays often cause changes in daily life,” she told Fox News Digital. “People with dementia often need to maintain their daily routines. This consistency can help them feel safer and reduce anxiety.”

Several experts have shared the following tips for helping people with dementia, family members Caregivers can enjoy a smooth, low-stress vacation.

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1. Prepare your family and friends in advance

Kate Granigan, board president of the Association for Aging Living Care in Boston, Massachusetts, recommends explaining any changes in a loved one’s behavior, memory, or communication before holiday gatherings, especially if others are unfamiliar with dementia.

“A little preparation and understanding can help create a more positive atmosphere.”

“Encourage visitors to be patient, avoid corrections or interruptions, and give your loved ones time to express themselves,” she advised Fox News Digital.

“A little preparation and understanding can help create a more positive atmosphere.”

2. Be as consistent as possible

During the holidays, it’s important to try to keep mealtimes, bedtimes and other daily activities around the same time, Corona-Irwin said.

“If changes are needed, do it gradually and communicate it clearly,” she advises.

One expert suggests involving your loved ones in familiar traditions, such as mixing cookie dough or singing familiar songs, to “spark a sense of joy and inclusion.” (iStock)

“For example, if you plan to have holiday meals at different times, one suggestion is to start changing your usual meal times a few days in advance to help your loved ones adjust smoothly.”

3. Simplify the environment

Dr. Tina Sadarangani, a professor at New York University, says it’s best to keep the environment for people with dementia as simple as possible Geriatric nurse practitioneris also the founder of the CareMobi app and The Enlightened Caregiver.

“Stick to familiar and nostalgic décor and avoid flashing lights or loud sounds that might be overstimulating,” she advises.

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Corona-Irving said the simple theme should extend into the event.

“Prioritize simple and fun activities, such as listening to your favorite holiday music, looking at old family photos, or engaging in gentle sensory activities,” she advises.

“These can be very comforting and bring joy, but they don’t cause stress.”

4. Clear and patient communication

For many people with dementia, keeping up with the conversation can be a challenge, said Dr. Michele Nealon, dean of the Chicago Institute, a nonprofit graduate school focused on psychology and related behavioral sciences. Challenging, especially in very busy and noisy environments.

Experts recommend considering their comfort and enjoyment when choosing gifts for people with dementia. (iStock)

“Use simple language, make eye contact, and give your loved one extra time to respond, or even not to respond,” advises Nealen of California.

“One-on-one interactions are easier than large group conversations because individuals feel included and valued.”

5. Embrace familiar traditions

Sadarangani also suggests involving your loved ones in familiar traditions, such as mixing cookie dough or singing familiar songs, to “spark a sense of joy and inclusion.”

“Sensory activities such as listening to calming sounds holiday musicTouching soft decorations or enjoying seasonal scents can also evoke positive feelings without overpowering them,” she adds.

“Accept the fact that the holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.”

Focus on what they can do rather than their limitations, Sadarangani suggests.

“Involve them in simple, meaningful tasks, like folding napkins or flipping through a photo album,” she says. “Planning short, flexible activities can prevent fatigue.”

6. Provide a calm space

Nealen noted that the holidays tend to be noisier and busier than usual, which can be overwhelming for people with dementia.

One expert advises: “If you can, provide them with a quiet space or room where they can take a break and relax when they need to.” (iStock)

“If you can, provide them with a quiet space or room where they can take a break and relax when they need to,” she suggested to Fox News Digital.

“Make the room as soothing as possible, using soft lighting, familiar objects and soft music to create a sense of calm.”

7. Prioritize self-care

For caregivers, Sadarangani emphasizes setting realistic expectations and Prioritize self-care.

“Accept that the holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful, and embrace the moments of connection, no matter how small they are,” she advises.

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To ease the burden during the busy season, caregivers should seek help when needed.

“Caregiving can be physically and mentally draining, and even a short break can go a long way toward reducing stress and avoiding burnout,” says Nealen.

“Ask for help, assign responsibilities to family members, and involve family members in cooking, decorating, and cleaning.”

“Nursers can’t do it all, and certainly not alone.”

8. Choose thoughtful gifts

Nierlen recommends considering their comfort and enjoyment when choosing gifts for people with dementia.

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“Items like a simple puzzle or a warm sensory blanket can provide much-needed comfort and joy,” she suggests.

9. Change the TV to music

Hannah Karim, head of care specialists at online care search site Lottie, said watching TV can be difficult for some people with dementia because they may struggle to follow storylines.

“It’s important to validate their feelings and provide reassurance.”

“This Christmas, swap the TV for the radio – or a specially curated dementia-friendly playlist – as it’s easier to follow,” advises Karim, who lives in the UK.

“Music has many benefits for health and well-being, especially for people living with dementia,” she continued. “Study finds music can help reduce anxiety and spark joy while recalling fond memories Christmas celebration from the past. “

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Karim adds that listening to your family’s favorite Christmas songs during the holidays can also help everyone create memories together.

10. Validate their feelings

Emotional support is just as important as physical care, Cowan-Owen noted.

“Your loved one may feel Sad, anxious or overwhelmed “During the holidays,” she said. “It’s important to validate their feelings and provide reassurance.”

“Stick to familiar and nostalgic décor and avoid flashing lights or loud sounds that may be overstimulating,” advises a geriatric nurse. (iStock)

You can do this by letting them know that it’s okay to feel how you feel and that you’re there to support them, Corwin-Owen says.

“Some simple gestures like holding their hand, giving them a hug, or sitting quietly with them can be incredibly comforting,” she adds.

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“By focusing on creating a calm, accepting environment and cherishing meaningful moments, you can ensure the holidays remain a source of joy and connection for your loved ones and family,” Sadarangani added.