Valentine's Day can be a special time to appreciate those closest to us. However, celebrating this holiday with a senior loved one who is living with Alzheimer's or dementia might just require some extra thoughtfulness and care. This post from Senior Helpers Fort Collins will provide tips for navigating Valentine's Day with your senior loved one so that you both have a day full of love and understanding.
Focus on Shared Experiences
Valentine's Day should be focused on the shared experience of love, even if your senior loved one is having issues with memory. Start by looking for common experiences between yourself and your senior that bring a sense of joy and shared connection. Playing familiar music or watching a movie that you have both enjoyed in the past might also provide great opportunities for connection. Making homemade cards, decorating cookies, playing a board game - whatever it is that you both enjoy is a great starting point when making your plans for the day.
Don't Put Pressure On Your Senior Loved One
When looking to celebrate Valentine's Day with someone who has Alzheimer's or dementia, it is important to remember that they might become overwhelmed very easily by unfamiliar and fast-paced activities. It's best to keep the focus on shared moments of joy rather than an activity-filled agenda. Pick one or two activities to enjoy together and go from there.
Be Flexible With Your Plans
Be mindful that your senior loved one might not be able to make it through the entire day of activities you have planned. If your elderly family member gets tired or overwhelmed, take a break or move on to another activity. This will help evoke positive emotions instead of frustration for both parties if the "perfect" Valentine's Day isn't achieved.
Show Your Love and Appreciation
Above all else, make sure you show your senior loved one that he or she is appreciated and your love will always remain. Giving compliments on clothing, hairstyles, hobbies - anything that celebrates the present moment - can go a long way in showing how much they are appreciated. Make this Valentine's Day memorable with meaningful moments of togetherness and intimacy. These sweet memories will stay with you for years, despite any current health circumstances faced by your senior.
Give Your Senior the Gift of Comfort and Security
Valentine's Day is a special day of the year that can be shared with someone living with Alzheimer's or dementia in meaningful ways. Let your senior loved one know that they are appreciated and celebrated, even though their memories may sometimes seem forgetful. Focus on what brings both parties joy while maintaining reasonable expectations and flexible plans - this way, you can ensure that Valentine's Day will be a warm and memorable experience for years to come.
If you are looking for senior care services for your senior loved one in the Fort Collins, Englewood, Littleton, Lone Tree, Loveland, Greeley, Wellington, Windsor, Estes Park, and Longmont areas, contact Senior Helpers today!