How to have a dementia-friendly Fourth of July, according to experts

Salisbury, Md. – While parties, barbeques, beach days and other Fourth of July celebrations are underway this weekend, advocates want to remind those with loved ones who have dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease that all the excitement can have an impact on their loved ones.

Officials at the Delaware Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association say it’s important to remember that dementia and Alzheimer’s patients thrive on routines, and holidays can sometimes be challenging for them and their caretakers.

Experts say they’re better off in quieter, calmer environments, away from loud fireworks and other noise. Big family celebrations may have to become smaller, more intimate gatherings.

“Like a lot of diseases, Alzheimer’s and other dementias affect the whole family,” Erica Holmes said. Holmes is the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Chapter program manager.

She said while it’s important to keep in mind that celebrations may look different for those whose loved ones are dementia or Alzheimer’s patients, it’s important to support their caretakers as well.

“You want to make sure that caregiver support is also included, because a lot of times, caregivers will withdraw from all social activities,” Holmes said. “And that is not healthy for them.”

She said it was important that, as loved ones are supported, caretakers also take time to care for themselves.

“So I think the best thing to do really is to have open, honest conversations with everyone in your family about expectations of things that happen,” Holmes said. She said it was important for family members to set realistic expectations when interacting with a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

“We might know that mom or dad, or grandpa or grandma, they’re a little different, you know, some things have… some challenges have changed,” she said.

Holmes said caregivers who would like more support or information, especially as the holiday approaches, can reach out to the Association’s hotline at 1-800-272-3900. Holmes said the line is staffed by master clinicians, and they answer the phone at all times.