GIFTS for ANY OCCASION

For many families, Birthdays, Mother's & Father's Day and the Holidays are a time for gathering, sharing, laughter and memories - for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss, anxiety or a physical impairment, these celebratory days can be stressful for them and their caregivers. Planning ahead makes celebrations more relaxing for family, friends and caregivers!

MindCare has selected some products that make wonderful gifts to help exercise & ease the mind.

Tips about selecting and giving gifts for those w/ Alzheimer's...

• Keep your loved one safe and happy, and try to minimize outbursts that can add to an already stressful time of year.
• Make name tags for everyone to easily recognize family members. It can be a fun project for the kids; make big letters and even decorate them.
• Stick to a set schedule, (i.e., when they get up, mealtimes, taking a nap, etc.). Change to routine can very difficult for people with memory related conditions such as Alzheimer's and dementia. Allow for “down time”, and be cognizant of “sun-downing” which can happen late in the afternoon when there is an increased likelihood of agitation. Find a quiet place for your loved one to rest, perhaps a nearby room, where family members can come one or two at a time to visit with them. Celebrate earlier in the day to reduce the risk of confusion. Consider throwing a holiday lunch instead of a dinner party.
• Let them take part in a few of their favorite traditions. Due to attention span and cognitive issues, people with later stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia might be happier taking part with the holiday activities of the younger kids. Holiday movies, making cookies, coloring and children’s crafts give them an opportunity to share in holiday activities without feeling overwhelmed.
• Limit the number of presents, and think “simple”. - Your loved one is not going to be impressed by how much you spend or how many presents you give them. Consider the “age” they are at – not biological, but cognitive – and select gifts accordingly.
• Holiday treats are especially tempting to those living with Alzheimer’s & dementia. Watch where you put the sweets and treats! Also, be sure they stay hydrated during this time. It’s important to keep them feeling healthy, and for any/all medications to work properly.
• Surround your loved one with music. Music is a part of the holiday tradition that can elevate their mood. If your family has a tradition of caroling, include them in it. Many people with Alzheimer’s can easily recall songs they have known for years!
• Take pictures and videos. Years from now, you and your family will look back upon this holiday season with warm thoughts about your loved one, and happy times you shared together. It is much easier for people with Alzheimer’s disease to remember things that happened long ago rather than things that happened yesterday, so reminisce with them!