Dementia. Tips from Aldersbridge for a good holiday. Mindful decorating, daytime events, etc.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association Rhode Island Chapter, over 22,000 individuals over the age of 65 live in Rhode Island with some form of dementia.

Recognizing that the holidays can be stressful and overwhelming for family members caring at home for older adults living with a cognitive diagnosis, The Loft at Linn, Aldersbridge Communities’ newest nonprofit assisted living memory care community located in East Providence, is offering the following tips for creating a dementia-friendly, calming environment:

Mindful decorating: 

Avoid using fake food items as decor (such as fruit, cookies or candy) as people with dementia may confuse these items with real food. Avoid using blinking lights and moving or noisy decorations as they can be disorienting. “Perhaps reconsider changing around the living room where your loved one is familiar, to keep the layout the same, and always be sure all traffic areas are kept clear of clutter to avoid fall hazards,” states Jamie L. Sanford, administrator of The Loft at Linn.

Familiarize your guests: 

Extended family members visiting for the holidays may not notice a difference in functioning when a person is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia. As the disease progresses, these changes can become more apparent. Let family and guests know ahead of time what to expect and remind them that changes in behavior and memory are because of the disease. “It’s helpful not to interrupt or correct someone with dementia or memory loss, and to give them time to finish their thought,” comments Sanford. “Often, they are reminiscing about the past or recognizing a grandchild as their sibling, for example. Practicing patience and compassion can go a long way in helping this person to be calm and lessen their anxiety.”

Celebrate during the daylight hours:

Some people living with dementia experience sundowning where they become agitated or overwhelmed in the evening after the sun goes down. Families should consider shifting holiday plans to earlier in the day so the person with dementia can spend time celebrating with family but stick to their usual evening routine of meals and rest time. Hosting smaller, quieter gatherings or creating a designated space where your loved one can retreat is also recommended.

Connect through technology: 

Holiday travel is incredibly stressful as it involves change of routine and scenery. Consider adapting your holiday plans so the person with dementia is not expected to travel. If loved ones live far away, set up a video chat to spend time together even while apart.

“Caring for someone living with dementia is all about calming and balance,” notes Sanford. “Small adjustments in routine, surroundings and activities can make all the difference for your loved one’s comfort and happiness. By focusing on thoughtful preparation and intentional inclusion, families can create a holiday atmosphere that honors their loved ones’ unique needs while preserving the joy of the season.”

For further information about The Loft at Linn, call 401-438-7210 or visit aldersbridge.org.

Established in 1971, Aldersbridge Communities is a nonprofit, healthcare organization that cares for the most vulnerable older adults regardless of payer source. It is the largest provider of affordable assisted living in the State of Rhode Island. Residents enjoy living in comfort, dignity and with purpose at one of Aldersbridge’s four communities: Winslow Gardens (assisted and independent living in East Providence), The Loft at Linn (assisted living memory care in East Providence), Arbor Hill Assisted Living (Federal Hill section of Providence), and St. Germain Assisted Living (Woonsocket). Main Office: 40 Irving Ave, East Providence, RI, 02914; Phone: 401-438-4456; Web: Aldersbridge.org.