Halloween can be an exciting time for many – tricks, treats, costumes… However, for those who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, all of the chaos can make the time of year quite frightening. Below are 5 tips to keep Halloween a safe and enjoyable time for loved ones who have Alzheimer’s disease.
- Keep décor to a minimum. Decorations that are scary, have loud noises or lights can cause stress and anxiety to someone who suffers from Alzheimer’s.
- Avoid using loud sounds like ghosts, banging or creaking doors to set the mood. While they may be fun for some, they can scare others.
- Keep treats in a safe spot. We all love candy, but for those suffering from Alzheimer’s chewing and swallowing unfamiliar things can create a problem.
- Let neighbors know candy will be outside. If your loved one is staying in a place where trick-or-treaters will be ringing the doorbell, it might be best to station candy outside. The constant ringing can be really confusing for a person with Alzheimer’s Disease.
- Skip the costume or keep it minimal. While dressing up can be a lot of fun, a person with Alzheimer’s may get confused or disoriented if they are dressed up.
Routine is great for people with Alzheimer’s disease. While Halloween is a great time and can be a lot of fun, we encourage you to try to stick to the normal routine as much as possible. If your loved one is in an assisted living home, ask how they intend to celebrate Halloween. It’s always best to be prepared for anything that may be unusual. If you need more resources to support an aging loved one, we are here for you. Visit us at Sunwaysseniorliving.com for more information.
