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By Becky Allard, LSW<\/p>\nBy Becky Allard, LSW<\/p>\n
The upcoming holiday season can be a very stressful time for caregivers to balance the extra stressors of the holiday, as well as continuing to provide care to their loved one.\u00a0 It can be easy to get lost in the routine and traditions that we have held dear in the past.\u00a0 The holiday season may look different this year depending on the spot in the journey your loved one is currently at.\u00a0 No matter the journey, tips for thriving during the holiday season can apply to everyone!<\/p>\n
TIPS<\/u><\/p>\n
Let go of perfection!\u00a0 Holiday advertisements, holiday songs, and media reports all feed into showing the perfect holiday, what it \u201cshould\u201d look like.\u00a0 Remember nobody can obtain perfection, and it will only add stress.\u00a0 Be present, and enjoy the moment that you are in!\u00a0 That is most likely what your loved one is doing, and so should you.<\/p>\n
Review and revise your traditions!\u00a0 Ask yourself has this tradition become a chore, or do I find enjoyment with it?\u00a0 Give yourself permission to Simplify.\u00a0 It is OK to cut back or alter the activity to better fit your loved one\u2019s abilities.<\/p>\n
Stick to your normal routine, and be aware of your stress level.\u00a0 Follow the H.A.L.T.S. self-check strategy.\u00a0 Ask yourself, \u201cAre you\u2026\u201d Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired, or Scared?\u00a0 Try to resolve those triggers to reduce your stress.<\/p>\n
Prepare your guests with education about how the disease process has impacted your loved one.\u00a0 Tell them what they can expect from your loved one during the family gatherings.\u00a0 Offer guidance if needed on the best ways to interact so people aren\u2019t surprised, and don\u2019t shy away from your loved one.<\/p>\n
Be mindful of family dynamics and emotions that go along with the holidays.\u00a0 Family members often fulfill a role within the family.\u00a0 That will most likely not change, so be mindful of your expectations of family members.\u00a0 Everyone is looking through a different lens on the situation, and each has unique feelings.\u00a0 Different perceptions will create different realities.<\/p>\n
It is equally important to care for yourself during the holiday season!\u00a0 Think about the activities that fill your heart with happiness and joy.\u00a0 Do those activities to \u201cFill your tank\u201d during the holiday season.\u00a0 Allow yourself to enjoy the holiday season too!\u00a0 Give yourself the gift of being present in the moment.<\/p>\n
Caregivers can thrive during the holidays!<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n