066. The Alzheimer's Association's tips for visiting family members with dementia

In 2021, 6 million Americans have received an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, with 400,000 individuals diagnosed in Texas alone.* Nearly everyone knows someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s, but there are still many questions how to handle it - especially around the holidays.

Senior Services Expert Lori Williams welcomes Tanesha Tyler-Carr, the program services coordinator from the Alzheimer’s Association Dallas and Northeast Chapter, to do a 3-part series on Alzheimer’s. She shares statistics and common misconceptions about the disease, as well as important tips for the holidays.

You’ll learn how to:

- Prepare yourself to visit a loved one with dementia

- Set boundaries and expectations with loved ones

- Include them in the festivities while attending their needs

If it's been a long time since you've connected with your loved one and you're unsure how to act or you're unsure how to help family members prepare, this will provide great guidelines for you.

Takeaways from this episode:

- Caregivers should prepare family and let them know what to expect, so the holidays are enjoyable for everyone.

- You may need to modify how you interact with your loved one. Their diagnosis may change how they express themselves and relate to others.

- Prepare a place away from the main action where your loved one can enjoy company on their own terms without becoming overstimulated.

- Find a way to let your loved one be part of the preparations in a way that fits their desires and abilities.

- Alzheimer’s is a brain disease and not only impacts memory and communication, but also their senses. Keep this in mind while preparing their plate of food.

Resources:

For more information on Alzheimer’s and preparing for the holidays:

Visit Alz.org/holidays

Call the 24/7 helpline at 800-272-3900

Going home for the holidays? Keep an eye on these red flags:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/efc65718/064-home-for-the-holidays-checklist-is-it-time-to-move

*According to alz.org/facts

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast, please email Lori@Loriwilliams-seniorservices.com

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