INDIANA – Independence Day is Thursday, filled with family fun activities and fireworks.
However, fireworks can create unique challenges for those with dementia.
This week, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) offered some tips on creating a dementia-friendly environment for caregivers and family members of people with dementia so everyone can be included in the celebrations.
The AFA’s director of educational and social services said that the best approach for caregivers is to be proactive, prepared, and adaptable while providing a safe space.
The AFA encourages families and caregivers to keep the following in mind when planning celebrations:
Forgo the Fireworks
While this may seem out of the holiday spirit, the AFA said loud explosions can agitate or frighten someone living with dementia, causing sensory overload and confusion. Even potentially causing them to wander away from safety, especially for war veterans.
Create a Calm Environment
Before the nighttime fireworks displays, caregivers should talk with loved ones in advance about hearing loud bangs and continue gently reminding them.
Should they be inside, calming background noise or music is also suggested to help block out noise and provide any comfort items they may have. If they live alone, the AFA recommends asking a relative, friend, or caregiver to stay with them and frequently check on them during the night if they live with you.
Minimize Your Gathering Size
The AFA recommended keeping crowds as small as possible for those planning a gathering. Large crowds can be overwhelming, disorienting, and anxiety-producing for someone living with dementia. Nametags for everyone there should also be considered.
The AFA says lunchtime celebrations could be best due to potential sundowning and to minimize anxiety and confusion. Routines should also be kept as normal as possible but with their favorite things to do.
Celebrate Creatively
The AFA recommended caregivers flex those creative muscles together with something engaging — activities include creating patriotic decorations with your loved one, playing or singing familiar patriotic music, baking Fourth of July-themed desserts, or compiling a family album with pictures from celebrations passed.
The AFA said activities like these can be cognitively stimulating and help your loved one express themselves creatively.
