SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE: HEALTH CARE HEROES & Holiday Stress Tips

Congratulations are in order!

On December 4, our Executive Director Diane Sancho was recognized as one of the Charleston Regional Business Journal's 2019 Health Care Heroes.

Each year, the Business Journal honors extraordinary men, women, and service animals who serve as professionals, first responders, and volunteers in the health care area. They are recognized for going beyond the call of duty for their communities and professions.

After devoting herself to caring for those affected by dementia and teaching caregivers to understand how important it is to care for themselves while they care for others, Diane was honored for opening Alice’s Clubhouse!

Well deserved, Diane!

HOLIDAYS AND DEMENTIA:
HOW TO ENJOY THE HOLIDAYS WITH LESS STRESS
(watch the video above for tips)
Holidays can bring about mixed emotions. Many families experience a sense of loss. For caregivers who struggle daily caring for a loved one with dementia, they often take on more duties than usual trying to maintain or “make up” the normalcy within the family unit.

Talk to your family and other visitors to prepare them for spending time with your loved one with dementia. You may be surprised that new and even more meaningful ways can be achieved during the holidays.

Some tips to help your loved one with dementia this holiday season:

Music is Magic! Especially playing old holiday favorites provides beneficial mental stimulation for your loved one. Keep the volume low and relaxing.
Have smaller gatherings. Large parties can be overwhelming. Try to keep gatherings quiet and relaxing.
If you do decide to take outings, make them brief, and be prepared to leave early, if necessary.
Minimize decorations to cause less confusion.
Always have a room where the person with dementia can sit quietly, alone, or have a quiet conversation visiting with one person at a time.