A NURSE is encouraging people to plan ahead for the festive period to help friends and relatives living with dementia.
NHS 24’s Lead Nurse for Dementia, Tilda McCrimmon (above), hopes her advice will help the 90,000 people in Scotland who have been diagnosed with the condition, which affects the functioning of the brain.
Tilda said: “The word dementia describes a set of symptoms, which may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. These changes are often small to start with, but for someone with dementia they have become severe enough to affect daily life.
“Many people living with dementia and their carers can find winter to be particularly difficult due to the hustle and bustle of holiday plans. But there are ways to minimise anxiety and enjoy a family gathering.”
Amy Dalrymple, Head of Policy from Alzheimer Scotland, added: “The festive season means many things to many people and for those living with dementia there can be extra challenges, routines disrupted, unfamiliar environments and some services being unavailable.
“Preparing for schedule changes over the period as well as creating a timetable or diary and regularly chatting through the changes with your family and friends will help you feel more in control of your plans.
Nurse Tilda’s guidance includes:
Be Health-Wise
Make sure your relative or friend:
- Has cold and flu remedies at home.
- Has any repeat prescription medication. Order only what they will need and in plenty of time.
- Knows when their GP surgery and local pharmacy is open over the holidays.
Plan for travel
Travelling to a family party by car or public transport can be confusing, so it is very important to plan your journey well.
Tilda said: “For those in the earlier stages of dementia, they may wish to arrange some support to enable them to travel independently with confidence, for example asking for personal assistance from train staff.
“If you are a relative of someone with dementia, the most important thing is to make the person feel comfortable, recognise their anxiety and talk to them about what would work best for them.
“Always have a back-up plan in place, in case of any travel disruption.”
Create a familiar space
Tilda suggests playing some familiar Christmas music or reminiscing over photos.
Quiet room
If you are expecting a particularly busy Christmas, provide a quiet space.
Tilda said: “A large number of guests can be overwhelming, designate a room in your house where your relative can relax.”
Community
Tilda also suggests reaching out to relatives with dementia.
She said: “Many people will cut themselves off from family and friends, when they find out they have dementia. Take the lead and invite them to your celebrations.
“If you are living with dementia and facing Christmas alone, there are organisations which offer a community Christmas, find out what’s on in your local area.”
Exercise
Get outside if you can. Even if it is cold, wrap up in winter clothing and go for a walk for some fresh air.
Enjoy
Most importantly, enjoy yourself ! Tilda said: “Following these few hints and tips can ensure you and your family have a healthy, happy Christmas!”
If you or someone you care for becomes unwell and can’t wait until your GP surgery reopens, you can contact NHS 24 on 111.
If you have any questions about dementia call Alzheimer Scotland’s 24 Hour Helpline on 0808 808 3000 – open 365 days a year.
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