During a collaboration between Friendship Village of Dublin and the Alzheimer’s Association of Central Ohio, experts in dementia care shared critical caregiving tips for the holidays.
The holiday season is often filled with cherished traditions, family gatherings, and special memories. For families caring for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, however, the holidays can also bring added stress, changing expectations, and emotional challenges.
At a recent Alzheimer’s Education Series event hosted at Friendship Village of Dublin, gerontology professor, nurse practitioner, and Alzheimer’s educator Dr. Rose Beeson shared practical guidance for helping families navigate the season with confidence, compassion, and realism. The program is part of Friendship Village’s ongoing commitment to providing education and support for residents, families, team members, and the broader Central Ohio community.
Preparing You and Your Loved Ones for the Holidays
Among the many valuable insights shared during the presentation, three key takeaways stood out.
- Adjust Expectations and Embrace the Present
One of the most powerful messages of the evening was the importance of letting go of comparisons to holidays past.
Families often feel pressure to recreate longstanding traditions exactly as they’ve always been. However, as dementia progresses, the needs and abilities of a loved one may change. Rather than focusing on what celebrations used to look like, Dr. Beeson encouraged caregivers to focus on what is realistic and meaningful today.
A quieter gathering, a shorter visit, or a new tradition may create a more positive experience for everyone involved. By meeting loved ones where they are in the present moment, families can reduce stress and create opportunities for genuine connection.
- Caregivers Must Care for Themselves
Caregiving is an act of love, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding, especially during the busy holiday season.
Dr. Beeson emphasized that self-care is not selfish. In fact, it is essential.
Whether through exercise, social connections, rest, support groups, journaling, or simply taking time to recharge, caregivers who prioritize their own well-being are better equipped to support their loved ones. Recognizing signs of stress and asking for help when needed can make a significant difference in maintaining both physical and emotional health.
- Connection Matters More Than Perfection
Large holiday celebrations can sometimes feel overwhelming for individuals living with Alzheimer’s. Loud environments, multiple conversations, unfamiliar surroundings, and disruptions to routine may increase anxiety and confusion.
Instead of striving for a picture-perfect holiday, Dr. Beeson encouraged families to focus on meaningful moments of connection. Smaller gatherings, familiar routines, quiet spaces, and even virtual visits can help loved ones feel more comfortable and engaged.
The goal is not perfection. The goal is to help people feel safe, included, loved, and connected.
Friendship Village’s Commitment to Lifelong Learning and Community Support
Programs like the Alzheimer’s Education Series reflect Friendship Village of Dublin’s broader commitment to supporting successful aging through education, engagement, and meaningful partnerships.
By collaborating with local experts, healthcare professionals, and organizations dedicated to aging and dementia education, Friendship Village of Dublin provides valuable learning opportunities that extend beyond its campus and benefit the wider community.
As the holiday season approaches, the evening’s message served as an important reminder: while circumstances may change, opportunities for joy, connection, and meaningful moments remain. Through education, support, and community, families can navigate each season with greater confidence and peace of mind.
If you would like to watch the full session of the Surviving the Holiday with Alzheimer’s, click here or view the video below.
For more Alzheimer’s Education Series videos addressing dementia and cognitive care, click here or visit our YouTube page for a playlist containing additional resources.
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