The holiday season is upon us – a joyful but often stressful time, especially for caregivers. Group gatherings, changes to routine, and high expectations can add pressure, particularly when caring for a loved one with a cognitive impairment.
In this tip video from Caregiver Resource Center OC, learn five tips to help you prepare.
- Communicate truthfully. Be honest with friends and family about your loved one’s needs. This eases tension and sets realistic expectations. Let people know about significant changes in appearance, potential outbursts, irrational or inappropriate behaviors, and cognitive slips such as forgetting the names of the people in attendance. When everyone understands the situation, visits can be more comfortable for all.
- Set Boundaries. When deciding how you want to show up this holiday season, honor both your energy levels and your loved one’s, and set boundaries accordingly. You do not have to say, “yes” to every invitation. When deciding on activities to participate in, consider things like the size of the event, the distance, and the timing of the gathering.
- Create new traditions. If your traditions are overwhelming or no longer feasible, try switching them up. For example, if you traditionally host a big holiday dinner, ask someone else to host it at their house this year. The important thing during the holidays is to spend time together with the ones you love. Anything that feels incompatible with that should be reconsidered.
- Take Guilt-Free Shortcuts. There is no shame or guilt in taking shortcuts – it is ok to simplify. Here are some examples: Head to the bakery to get a delicious tray of cookies or cake. Give gift cards instead of presents. Hire someone to put up your lights, or drastically cut down the display this year. Order a nice dinner instead of cooking a feast. These small adjustments can free up your time and energy so that you may enjoy the holidays with the people that you love.
- Accept Help. When help is offered, say yes — and be specific. Give them a specific job or task to complete that can free up some of your time and energy. This may include asking someone to wrap gifts, cook a dish, or stay with your loved one so you can rest or attend an event. There’s no need to feel uncomfortable accepting the help that is offered. The best thing you can do is step aside and let them help you.