Taking Care of Yourself this Christmas
Christmas is a time of spiritual reflection as we celebrate our Christian faith. Many families, however, are experiencing the first, second, or even tenth Christmas this year with supporting a family member living with dementia, and holidays can be trying during this time for many reasons. It is so important family members and friends address their own needs, which are often neglected.
H.A.L.T. is a technique to keep in check with emotions and needs. When you recognize a change in your mood or become a bit irritable, pause and quickly assess the change by asking yourself if you are Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired. This acronym can help identify a change in your mood and thus give you the ability to meet that need. Taking a moment and taking a deep breath and H.A.L.T. may help avoid a conflict the next time you begin to see a shift in your mood. Questioning if you are thirsty should be included in the “hungry” assessment because becoming dehydrated can cause mood swings, headaches, urinary tract infections, and confusion.
This, of course, is a quick and simple way to assess your family members when they experience a change in mood. People with dementia may be unable to let you know they need water, and dehydration can cause increased confusion. Often, people living with dementia will forget to drink. Even offering a class of water to the person does not always mean they will drink it, so take a break and enjoy a beverage with your loved one. Making sure your loved one receives the best care possible starts with meeting basic needs.
Many families are grieving this Christmas, and the holiday may feel different this year, but remembering the birth of Christ by giving time and compassion to your loved one and remembering the Christmas story can bring hope and inspiration.
Merry Christmas Everyone!
If you, a friend or family member living with memory loss would be interested in learning more about our Memory Ministry or Memory Cafe, pleas contact Vicky Pitner at vpitner@fumc.org