Health Tip: Caring for a Loved One During the Holidays
November 7, 2008, 2:02 PM ET
• 1 min read
Nov. 8 -- (HealthDay News) -- Holidays are a time of happiness but they can also be quite stressful, especially for caregivers and their charges with Alzheimer's disease.
The National Institute on Aging offers these suggestions for caregivers:
Keep up with family traditions, and, as much as possible, include your loved one with Alzheimer's disease.Understand and accept the changes that the disease brings, and be realistic in your expectations.Encourage visits from family and friends, but arrange them appropriately. Don't schedule too many at a time, and plan them when the person with Alzheimer's is likely to be at his or her best.Keep your loved one comfortable and happy by keeping the routine the same, and avoiding crowds and confusing situations.Ask for help so that you have time to relax and enjoy the holidays.