Fourth of July celebrations usually include fireworks, big gatherings, large amounts of food, and loud conversations, all of which can be overwhelming for someone with dementia. To help make the holiday safe and enjoyable for everyone, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) offers these tips.
Skip the fireworks. Loud noises can agitate, frighten, or overload people with dementia. They also may cause someone to wander away from safety. Fireworks may trigger bad memories, fear, and anxiety in veterans, who may confuse them with bombs or gunfire. Before fireworks begin, consider keeping loved ones with dementia in quiet indoor areas or watch fireworks displays on TV and keep the volume low.
Create a calm environment. Situate loved ones indoors in a place with soothing background sounds from white noise machines, air conditioners, or familiar music. Place comfort items such as a blanket or favorite piece of clothing nearby. For people with dementia who live alone and may be able to hear fireworks, consider having them stay with you, or ask a trusted person to check in on them. Or, consider hiring a home care worker for that evening.
Keep gatherings small. Large crowds can be overwhelming and disorienting for people with dementia. Invite just a few people and provide name tags for everyone so the person with dementia can identify the guests. Also, consider hosting a luncheon instead of an evening function since some people with dementia experience sundowning (increased confusion in the late afternoon and persisting through the night).
Stick to the same routine. Even though it’s a holiday, maintain the same schedule for the person with dementia—including mealtimes, naptimes, and bedtime—and incorporate their favorite activities during the day.
Celebrate creatively. Incorporate July 4-related themes in activities that day. Make patriotic decorations, play familiar patriotic music or sing familiar patriotic songs, bake themed desserts, or compile a family album with pictures of past July 4th celebrations.
Reach out. Those who need more suggestions or have concerns can speak with a licensed social worker through AFA’s Helpline at 866-232-8484, send a text message to 646-586-5283, or chat online at alzfdn.org. The helpline is open seven days a week.
