December 2021 Alzheimer’s News

If you are a caregiver living with a person who has Alzheimer’s, consider modifying your holiday celebrations. Strive for minimal confusion. Decide which traditions are most important to you. This may require a family meeting to get everyone on the same page, and asking others to help by dividing up responsibilities. You may want to consider multiple smaller gatherings, or scheduling events at the time of day that is the best time of day for the person with Alzheimer’s. At your celebration you could all wear name tags, and introduce yourself when talking with the person who has Alzheimer’s. Avoid guessing games. Use a quiet location with the TV off, or music is low. Be sure the space is well lit, such as bright lights if it is evening or night.
You can learn more by going to www.alz.org/help-support/resources or the
Alzheimer’s Helpline which is accessible 24/7 via 800-272-3900 and staffed
by master’s level clinicians to assist with crisis situations, decision making,
and disease information. You can find virtual dementia caregiver resources
online at alz.org/covid19help. Tools and support are also available in Spanish.
Want to learn more about the Alzheimer’s Association and what they do here
in St. Louis? Visit alz.org and/or contact PUCC’s Faith Outreach Ambassador
with the Alzheimer’s Association, Joyce Ruiz at joyceruiz7@gmail.com