The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America has released a set of tips to help family caregivers care for people with dementia during the Independence Day festivities.
“Fireworks and gatherings are staples of the 4th of July holiday, but these can create unique challenges for someone living with dementia,” according to the foundation.
“Celebrating Independence Day can still be a fun, enjoyable experience for families impacted by dementia-related illnesses by making the proper adaptations such as being cautious about watching fireworks due to loud noises. It requires thoughtful planning to ensure their safety, comfort and enjoyment,” Jennifer Reeder, a social worker and the foundation’s director of educational and social services said in a press release.
Check out the tips below for preparing for the holiday:
- Forgo the Fireworks
Fireworks and loud explosions can agitate or frighten someone living with dementia, cause sensory overload and confusion and potentially cause the person to wander away from safety. They can also be triggering if the person is also a war veteran and thinks they are hearing gunshots or bombs. Consider keeping the person in a quiet, indoor area at times when they might hear fireworks.
- Create a Calm Environment
Noisy, exploding fireworks nearby can still cause anxiety, fear or agitation for someone living with dementia even if they are indoors. Prepare your loved one in advance by explaining to them that there may be loud noises and continue doing so gently at different intervals. Create a calm environment with soothing background sounds, such as a white noise machine or an air conditioner, or play familiar or favorite music to block the noise of nearby fireworks. Having favorite comfort items/objects on hand (i.e., blanket, article of clothing, etc.) can help provide additional comfort. Check-in on your loved one during the night if they live with you. If they live alone, consider asking a trusted relative or friend to stay with them, or hire a home caregiver for the night.
- Minimize Your Gathering Size
If you plan on a gathering, keep it small—large crowds can be overwhelming, disorienting and anxiety-producing for someone living with dementia. Consider providing name tags for everyone to help the person. Because of the possibility of sundowning, lunchtime celebrations could be best when there is less anxiety or confusion. Keep the person’s routines as normal as possible, including mealtimes, naptimes and going to sleep at night. Incorporate favorite activities into the day.
- Celebrate Creatively
Get involved in the holiday spirit by doing things together. Examples include creating patriotic decorations with your loved one, playing or singing familiar patriotic music, baking 4th of July-themed desserts or compiling a family album.
People who would like more advice for caring for family members with dementia can call the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s helpline at (866) 232-8484 to speak with a licensed social worker or online at alzfdn.org.