For a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, familiar traditions of the holiday season can be overwhelming. In a recent post, we shared tips for creating holiday joy in the midst of challenging changes and now we’re sharing three tips for celebration New Year’s Eve.
A brand new year feels like a fresh start. It’s the perfect time to assess your life and make commitments to changing for the better. Involve your loved one in the process of making resolutions. Consider committing to spending quality time together on a schedule, such as a Sunday evening dinner or a mid-week brunch. Putting these shared events on your loved one’s calendar will help them feel connected to you, and it’s an opportunity for you to spend quality time together.
Looking to the past is a traditional part of the holiday season. It’s a nostalgic time, which makes it ideal for looking through photo albums together, listening to seasonal music, and sharing stories of old. Memories can be triggered by familiarity, so try to incorporate any family traditions you may have for New Year’s. If your family celebrates in a special way, modify it as necessary and enjoy.
The traditional countdown on New Year’s Eve is to midnight, but that may not be feasible for your loved one. There are lots of ways to count down. If you’re on the West Coast, follow the East Coast countdown for an earlier night. On the East Coast? Consider celebrating with a New Year’s Day breakfast. Either way, break out the festive hats and party horns and enjoy.
A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s for your loved one mean inevitable changes, but it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy holidays together. Be open to modifying traditions to ensure your loved one’s safety and comfort, and remember to stay positive. Above all, you’re together, and that’s what matters.
Learn more about Syncare Memory Suites, a personalized and private memory care home in Minnesota. We understand the challenges you face when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and we’re here to answer your questions. Contact us today.
