Hello everyone,

In order to get everyone into the holiday spirit, we are excited to announce our Holiday Tidbit Contest! As you celebrate the holidays with residents at your facility, consider person-centered approaches to help decrease behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.

 For example, music is a big part of the holidays, so try playing classic holiday songs during care activities or while writing out Christmas cards with residents. Ask visitors to take residents for walks around the facility to look at the holiday decorations. Do you have residents who liked to bake? Host a cookie decorating party for residents and their guests. You can supply the pre-baked cookies, and residents can add the icing and sprinkles. Messy, but fun! Keep in mind that for some residents, the extra “hustle and bustle” around the holidays can be too much stimulation for them, and they may need extra breaks throughout the day for quiet time and rest.

 This article from Daily Caring.com has some great tips and ideas too:

http://dailycaring.com/5-best-alzheimers-holiday-tips-for-an-enjoyable-season/?utm_source=DailyCaring&utm_campaign=e65bccd561-DC_Email_2017-12-11&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_57c250b62e-e65bccd561-123152321

 Email your tidbit (it only has to be a paragraph!) to Erin Vigne (vigne1@verizon.net) by January 7^th. Those who send in the winning tidbits will win a prize for their facility!

Have a great week, and we can’t wait to read YOUR tidbits!