Holiday time is coming up, and for caregivers of loved ones with Alzheimer's disease, it can be a very challenging time of the year. Here are some suggestions to help you and your loved one to have a safe and happy season together in spite of the obstacles.

In the midst of putting up decorations, rearranging furniture and putting up Christmas trees, the person with Alzheimer's will do better in an environment that is as consistent as possible. Try not to move the furniture more than absolutely necessary, and watch for danger spots, like electrical cords or throw rugs that could cause a fall. Don't have candles burning in places that could easily be brushed up against with clothing. Avoid using blinking lights or decorations that look edible. Use their best-loved decorations to spark memories and increase their ability to enjoy the festivities. Play familiar Christmas songs, and fix traditional foods that they enjoy.

If there are alot of young children visiting, have them play in a separate room to keep noise levels down and avoid causing your loved one to feel panicked or agitated. Alzheimer's patients pick up on the moods of others around them, and the atmosphere needs to feel serene and peaceful for them to enjoy visitors. Have just a few guests at one time and avoid large crowds of people. Name tags are very helpful and will keep your loved one from feeling frustrated and embarrassed when they can't remember people they should know. Have a quiet room where they can go that they are accustomed to in case they feel overwhelmed by too much noisy activity. If you notice signs of increased confusion or agitation, help them find their place to rest for a while.

Christmas stories from years gone by will help draw your loved one in and keep them involved in the celebration. It's much easier for them to remember things that happened long ago than something that happened yesterday, so reminisce! Try simple tasks to occupy the time, like frosting cookies, stamping envelopes for cards, or making simple ornaments. Look at catalogs together and help them order gifts for people they care about. Have photo albums available with pictures from times that were precious to your loved one, and take time to look at them together. This could be just what they need to reconnect and appreciate the holidays, creating memories that you will hold dear for years to come.

Article Tags: Alzheimer's Disease Presents Many Challenges For Families And Patients Alike. Array Here Are Some Suggestions To Help Make The Holidays More Enjoyable For All Who Are Dealing With This Difficult Disease.

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Jo Nelson is a Registered Nurse and the owner and administrator of Servant's Heart Home Health Services in North Central Indiana. Servant's Heart offers a variety of services to help patients live safely and comfortably at home, from 24 hour care to skilled nursing services. Visit us on the web at servantsheartservices.com.