Make simple meals
“Cooking and baking are exhausting around the holidays, so I encourage caregivers to find shortcuts,” says Elizabeth Miller, founder of the Happy Healthy Caregiver consulting services and podcast. “Serve store-bought desserts or cheese plates, or ask your guests or other family members to bring their favorite dishes."
Focus on fewer activities
Honor traditions that mean the most to you, knowing that you can't do them all, says Miller. “Maybe it's seeing The Nutcracker, attending your faith community's holiday services, or baking cookies using Grandmom's recipe,” she says. Or you could flip through photo albums or watch old family videos, suggests Gregory S. Day, MD, FAAN, a behavioral neurologist at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, FL.
Manage disruptions
“Avoid events during times of day when your loved one is least alert,” says Teepa Snow, dementia care expert and co-author of When Is Enough, Enough?: A Positive Approach to Finding Balance in a Caring Life. “If mornings or evenings aren't ideal, consider alternative times to celebrate.” People with dementia may become noticeably more confused or agitated during the late afternoon and early evening, a state referred to as “sundowning.”
Arrange respite care
“Ask for a specific day off so family members can plan ahead,” advises Julia L. Mayer, PsyD, who co-wrote AARP's Meditations for Caregivers: Practical, Emotional, and Spiritual Support for You and Your Family. Or ask family members to contribute to the cost of a home-care worker and a gift card to the movies.
Protect your health
“Monitor your alcohol and sugar consumption,” advises Snow. “Get some exercise, reconnect with nature, and set limits on what you'll eat and drink to stay healthy.”
Be smart about travel
Plan way in advance if you're traveling and allow plenty of extra time, says Dr. Day.
