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As an Alzheimer’s Caregiver, How Can I Fight Depression During the Holidays?
For many caregivers and families of loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, the holidays are more stressful and overwhelming, which often leads to sadness and depression.
The holiday blues can get the best of anyone, but for Alzheimer’s caregivers, the feeling is magnified. The ambiguous feelings of losing a loved one to Alzheimer’s persist, and memories of past vacations spent together can inspire feelings of sadness, loneliness, and emptiness. These feelings are normal, and it is important to you to acknowledge them and realize that while the holidays may not be the same as they used to be, there is still reason to celebrate, that there is always room to add new memories and traditions.
In general, to help with depression, try to set realistic expectations and avoid pressure and pressure from family and friends to continue special traditions that have been done in the past. The focus should be on what you and your loved ones need, not what is expected of you during the holidays. Also, be aware of your limitations and know when to say “no.”
It helps to prioritize and reduce the size of holiday tasks. Division of labor is responsible. For example, for holiday cooking, stick to two or three favorite dishes instead of six or seven, and ask your loved ones to contribute and help as much as possible so they feel needed and valued, and incorporated into holiday traditions. Also, be open and receptive to help when others offer it, and ask for help when needed. Especially in such a special season, people feel good about helping those they care deeply about.
To avoid depression, try to maintain as regular a routine as possible. Self-care is also critical for caregivers, with adequate physical activity, rest, and adequate sleep necessary for overall health. Balancing holiday meal indulgence with lighter food choices will help reduce lethargic feelings and lessen the guilt of overeating, which can sometimes be at the root of depression.
As always, if you notice signs of depression in yourself, please contact your healthcare provider. Join a support group and/or share your feelings with someone you trust.
Although the holidays can be stressful for Alzheimer’s caregivers, remember it’s a time of love, family, friends and sharing. Enjoy the blessings you can enjoy and enjoy time spent with family and friends. Let them support you.
Experts at the Mayo Clinic state, “As a caregiver, it’s unrealistic to think that you will have the time or energy to participate in all the holiday activities that you once did. However, by adjusting your expectations and modifying some traditions, you can still contribute to You and your family find meaning and joy.”
Questions about Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders can be sent to Dana Territo, author of What My Grandchildren Taught Me About Alzheimer’s Disease at thememorywhisperer@gmail.com.
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