How to make Halloween safer for dementia patients: Experts share tips (Image credits: iStock)
Halloween, known for its spooky sights and sounds, can be especially disturbing for people with Alzheimer’s illness or dementia. Sudden noises, flashing decorations, and strangers in costumes can cause confusion and anxiety. Jennifer Reeder, director of educational and social services at the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), emphasizes the importance of proactive caregiving during this time to ensure the day remains safe and enjoyable for people with dementia.
“Following a few simple steps can help keep the ‘happy’ in ‘Happy Halloween’ for someone living with dementia,” advises Reeder.
The AFA offers practical tips to help caregivers navigate the holidays with ease:
1. Avoid interactive or scary decorations:
Halloween decorations, such as screaming skeletons, flashing lights, or moving figures, can be overwhelming and distressing for a person with dementia. Even visually disturbing decorations, such as witches or cobwebs, can be unsettling. Stick to calm, neutral seasonal decorations, such as pumpkins, fall leaves, or other non-threatening items.
2. Create a calm environment:
While costumed trick-or-treat vendors roam the streets, helping your loved one relax can make a big difference. Play relaxing music, engage in calm activities like reading, or offer reassurance and reassurance if he becomes agitated. Keeping your home calm and predictable is key to reducing any Halloween-related anxiety.
3. Make Halloween Dementia Friendly:
Consider modifying Halloween traditions to better fit your loved one’s current abilities and preferences. Replace sweets with healthier snacks like fruits, which can help avoid the sugar crash. Enjoy simpler, non-stressful activities, like reminiscing about old Halloween photos, painting pumpkins, or watching a happy Halloween movie together. Focus on what they like and what they can participate in without feeling overwhelmed.
4. Supervise during trick or treating:
Having strangers repeatedly knocking on the door in disguise can be frightening and confusing for someone with dementia. It is essential to ensure that the person is not alone during these times. If your loved one wants to hand out candy, go with them and make sure they are safe. Avoid inviting people inside for trick-or-treating unless they look familiar.
5. Keep the lights on:
A well-lit home can deter thieves and vandals, who may attack homes that appear empty. Keep indoor and outdoor lights on to indicate that someone is home. If you prefer to avoid candy, consider leaving a plate of candy outside with a sign that says, “Please take one.”
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