Halloween can be a very frightening time for those with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia.
Here are a few things you can do, or be aware of, as a caregiver, during this spooky season:
1. Limit the amount of Halloween decorations or changes to the home as these will cause further confusion, in an already confused mind. We know that change is hard for your loved ones with Alzheimer’s to process.
2. Make the environment more cheerful. If your loved one perceives a threat, they could possibly become even more anxious and potentially very agitated.
3. Do your best to prepare them for the loud noises they will likely be hearing. You can sit down with them and explain what the noises are. Maybe even show them a video that they can relate to.
4. Turn off your front door light. Reducing the possibility that the doorbell will ring non-stop can help you keep your loved one calm.
5. Avoid using candles. There are some good battery options that would be a better choice.
6. Be aware of what is on the TV. At this time of year there are many scary shows. If possible channel block if your loved one loves to channel surf.
Photo credit: David Menidrey via Unsplash
