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ALZHEIMER'S CARE GIVING AT CHRISTMAS
Sunday, December 3, 2017 by Carol B. Amos

Christmas holidays can be difficult for those caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease. Although caregivers long for holidays of the past, caregivers can shift their thinking and create new traditions. These new traditions may be a less stressful Christmas such as a simpler Christmas dinner and reduced gift giving.

Caregivers can make the holiday enjoyable for their loved one. Possible activities to celebrate the season are:

  • A car ride to view Christmas light displays in the neighborhood
  • A visit to view Christmas decorations at the mall (select less busy times)
  • A hayride in the park (depends on weather and physical ability)
  • Christmas concerts at church, mall, library, etc.
  • A visit to a live Nativity scene
  • Participate in neighborhood or church Christmas caroling

Friends and church members can give the gift of help to caregivers during this season and throughout the year. Some suggestionsare:

  • Offer to stay with or do an activity with the person with Alzheimer’s giving the caregiver a break,
  • Offer to prepare a meal for the family.
  • Offer to run errands for the caregiver.
  • Offer a ride.
  • Offer to take the person with Alzheimer’s to an event.

Talking, listening, and providing encouragement to caregivers are always in season.
This is the season of giving. Reach out to a caregiver and show the love of Jesus Christ.

 

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