Simplify the Holidays
An update from Tia Drumm, Caregiver Programs Coordinator
The holiday season can be a joyful time, but for caregivers, it often adds extra stress to an already demanding schedule. Balancing the needs of your loved ones with holiday preparations can feel overwhelming, but with some planning and the right mindset, you can enjoy the season too! Here are a few tips to simplify your holiday season as a caregiver.
• If you’re stressed about decorating, only decorate your favorite places in the home. Be flexible in traditions, and remember that it’s about the meaning behind the event.
• When decorating the home, make sure your loved one’s items are not moved and stay in the same place as usual. Explain to visiting family and friends how this helps your loved one feel more at ease in their surroundings.
• You control where your energy goes! Invite people who bring you joy, and engage in topics that you enjoy. Focus on the good stuff! Be grateful for who is there, the food or items available and enjoy yourself with friends and family.
• Invite friends or other support people you have found along your journey. Perhaps a neighbor or a friend you’ve met at a gathering, group, or café.
• If your loved one is becoming agitated or upset, remove them from the situation. Investigate what caused your loved one to become upset.
• If you have children coming to the family gathering, have the children engage in an activity with your loved one, such as coloring or completing a puzzle.
Don’t stress yourself out on details, and enjoy time with your family and friends this year!
For Blackford, Delaware, Grant, Henry, Jay, and Madison counties, contact Tia Drumm at (765) 759-1121 ext. 101 or tdrumm@lifestreaminc.org.
For Fayette, Franklin, Rush, Union, and Wayne counties, contact Chelsey Krofta at (765) 759-1121 ext. 281 or ckrofta@lifestreaminc.org.
Creating Good Sleep Habits
An update from Kellie Magoon, Care Coach
Caregiving is a monumental task and we need to be our strongest and best self in order to maintain a calm, composed, and productive frame of mind. Developing and maintaining a consistent and quality sleep schedule is an important foundation in ensuring that we have the tools to meet daily challenges.
During deep sleep, the brain goes through a natural cleaning process that clears out waste that builds up during the day. This includes removing potentially harmful substances like amyloid proteins, which gather throughout the day as cells work to produce energy. These protein deposits may be linked to cognitive decline over time.
Here are some simple guidelines that can help you establish a healthy bedtime routine to ensure quality, restful sleep for both you and your loved one:
• Keep to a regular schedule: same bedtime, same awake time.
• Keep the bedroom dark.
• Encourage increased activity during the day.
• Avoid caffeine 10 hours prior to bedtime.
• Minimize fluids 2 hours before bedtime.
• Avoid screen time before bedtime (ideally 30 minutes–2 hours prior to bedtime).
All of these suggestions can be effective tools in self-care and maintaining the health and well-being of your loved one. Many caregivers apply suggestions like these to their loved ones’s lives but deny themselves the same. Give yourself the credit you deserve and apply self-care techniques to your own daily routine so you can be the best you!
Memory Care
Music & Memory, a nonprofit that helps individuals with cognitive conditions engage with the world, started with the understanding that music is deeply rooted in our conscious and can be used as an effective cue to recall autobiographical memories and strong emotions. Music is also a meaningful way to connect with loved ones. PMC PubMed Central shared how music activates areas of the brain associated with memory, speech, and emotions. Some of the ways music can help with memory loss include
• Recovering Memories: Music can help people with dementia recall memories, even if they can’t remember other events.
• Improving Mood: Music can help people with dementia feel calmer and boost their mood.
• Social Connection: Music can help people with dementia feel connected to others and caregivers.
• Reducing Agitation: Music can help reduce agitation and confusion.
• Creating New Memories: Music can help individuals create new memories to cherish.
Visit lifestreaminc.org/stepin for Memory Kits and Dementia Caregiver Support Groups
Cozy
Corner
An
update from
Kelly Smith, Dementia Outreach Specialist
The holiday season can be a whirlwind of gatherings, celebrations, and travel. While it’s an exciting time, it can also be overwhelming for someone living with dementia. If you’re supporting a loved one living with dementia, keeping things simple, familiar, and comforting can make a big difference in helping them feel included and at ease. Below are a few examples on how to support a loved one living with dementia during the holiday season:
Embrace a Slower Pace: As tempting as it is to plan a full day of holiday activities, keep in mind that a busy schedule can be exhausting for someone with dementia. Try to limit gatherings to shorter, more manageable times, and avoid scheduling multiple events back-to-back.
Be Mindful of Sensory Overload: Holiday music, lights, and lots of conversations are part of the season, but they can be overwhelming. Opt for a calm, cozy environment over flashing lights or loud music. Keep conversations at a gentle volume, and if you’re visiting in a larger group, try to keep gatherings small or make time for quieter, one-onone interactions with your loved one.
Share Stories and Memories: One of the most beautiful things about the holidays is the chance to reminisce. For people with dementia, long-term memories can be easier to recall than recent ones, so take time to share stories from past holidays. Pull out old photos, listen to favorite holiday songs, or talk about traditions from years gone by. These moments can help your loved one feel connected and included.
Find Simple Ways to Involve Them: Including your loved one in simple holiday tasks can provide a sense of purpose and joy. Tasks like setting the table, stirring cookie batter, or arranging ornaments can be enjoyable ways to engage them in the holiday spirit.
The holiday season is about love, connection, and togetherness. By slowing down, creating familiarity, and finding small ways to include your loved one, you can make the holidays a comfortable and memorable time.
Upcoming Events
Memory Cafés
Memory Cafés are a welcoming, safe place for people living with dementia and their caregivers to enjoy social engagement and a break from their normal routine.
• Richmond: First Monday of the month, 11am at Paint the Towne
• 411 N. 8th St., Richmond, IN
• Rushville: Second Thursday of the month, 10am at Rush County Senior Center
• 504 W. 3rd St., Rushville, IN
• Brookville: Fourth Monday of the month 12pm at Brookville Senior Center
• 11146 County Park Rd., Brookville, IN
• Muncie: Second Friday of the month 11:30am at Ball State Health Professions
• 1615 W. Riverside Ave., Muncie, IN
Visit lifestreaminc.org/calendar for a complete list of events
Parenting a Second Time Around (PASTA)
An educational and support group for adults doing kinship care, such as grandparents raising grandchildren or an aunt raising a niece or nephew.
• Every Tuesday evening, 6–7pm
• Compass Church at 8116 W. Jackson St., Muncie, IN
Caring for the Caregiver During the Holidays
An update from Rachel Gray, Care Coach
Caring for someone with dementia during the holidays can be especially challenging, but it’s vital to prioritize the caregiver’s well-being. Let’s ensure that those who devote themselves to caring for others also receive the compassion and support they need this holiday season. By following a few of these steps below, we can help caregivers navigate this season with greater ease.
Understand the Emotional Impact: Caring for someone with dementia can be emotionally taxing, especially during the holidays when memories and traditions may evoke strong feelings. Caregivers may experience sadness, frustration, or anxiety as you navigate the complexities of your loved one’s condition. Encouraging caregivers to acknowledge their emotions and talk about their feelings can provide relief.
Simplify Holiday Plans: Holidays often come with high expectations—elaborate meals, large gatherings, and intricate decorations. For caregivers, these tasks can be overwhelming. Encourage them to simplify their holiday plans. This might mean opting for a smaller celebration, preparing easy-to-make dishes, or even delegating tasks to other family members. Emphasizing the importance of being present over perfection can help reduce stress and create a more enjoyable atmosphere.
Prioritize Self-Care: Self-care is critical but often overlooked by caregivers. Remember to take time for yourself, even amidst the hustle and bustle. Small breaks—whether it’s enjoying a quiet cup of tea, a short walk, or indulging in a favorite hobby—can make a significant difference. Caregivers should also consider using respite care services during the holidays, allowing them to recharge while ensuring their loved one is cared for.
Adapt Traditions: Holidays often involve cherished traditions, but caregivers may need to adapt these to accommodate the needs of their loved one with dementia. This could include modifying family activities to be less stimulating or incorporating familiar routines that provide comfort. Finding ways to engage the person with care needs—such as simple crafts or reminiscing about past holidays—can foster connection without overwhelming them.
Season with Support, Garnish with Connection
The holidays are among us, and they can be filled with many emotions and celebrations but can also be challenging times for caregivers. Finding the right balance and desire to create memorable moments with the ongoing responsibilities of caregiving can leave many feeling overwhelmed and isolated. Seeking support through this season is especially important—this is where support groups can come into play. Finding support through shared experiences, feelings, understanding, and practical advice can make all the difference during any season but especially during this demanding time of year. We encourage you to season your holidays by joining us at one of our LifeStream Caregiver Gatherings, which are support groups held monthly in your community. We hope this will help garnish your journey with the warmth of new connections. When attending a support group or connecting with friends and family regularly, you can share in the joy of encouragement and support—sprinkling stories with empathy and laughter, seasoned with understanding.
• Wayne County Caregiver Gathering: November 20 & December 18, 11:30am at Firehouse BBQ & Blues in Richmond.
• Delaware County Caregiver Gathering: November 26 & December 31, 11:30am at By Hand & Fork in Muncie.
• Union County Caregiver Gathering: November 12 & December 10, 11:30am at Pizza King in Liberty.
As we come together, may the spirit of togetherness brighten your holiday journey as a caregiver and bring joy and warmth to your heart.
“During the holidays, harder times may come up for caregivers to navigate and wish to connect with others. We have a monthly support group that we would like to welcome current caregivers in the community to come and join us. So, consider this a welcome hand of friendship, and I hope will you come and share, get connected, and gain resources from peers.” – Donna Handley, Volunteer Facilitator, Richmond Caregiver Gathering.
Caregiver Lending Library
LifeStream Services proudly offers a Lending Library designed to support caregivers in their efforts to provide the highest quality care for their loved ones. This resource is intended to educate and empower individuals in their caregiving roles.
Our collection includes literature on various topics, such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and schizophrenia, as well as resources aimed at helping children understand dementia. Recognizing the challenges of caregiving, LifeStream is committed to supporting those who provide care for family members with various diagnoses. In our dementia section, you will find informative books on topics such as dementia education, strategies for assisting loved ones with daily activities, guidance on making end-of-life decisions, and inspiring stories from fellow caregivers. Our selection of Parkinson’s literature is sourced from the Parkinson’s Society, complemented by additional information and contacts for local support services.
How to Use Our Library
Our Lending Library is open to you during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8am to 5pm, and is conveniently located in the foyer of the Yorktown office at 1701 Pilgrim Blvd.
To borrow a book, select your desired title and sign it out using the card located inside the book’s jacket. Please include your name and phone number, then deposit the card in the designated box. We kindly ask that you treat our books with care and return them in a timely manner so that others may benefit from these resources as well.
1701 Pilgrim Blvd.
Yorktown, IN 47396
lifestreaminc.org
(800) 589-1121 | lifestreaminc.org | facebook.com/lifestreamservices Return Service Requested
Dementia Friendly Yorktown
Dementia Friendly America (DFA) is a network of communities, organizations, and individuals seeking to ensure that communities across the US are equipped to support people living with dementia and their care partners. DFA’s mission is to increase dementia awareness, reduce stigma, and provide quality dementia-friendly resources, education, and support that fosters the creation of communities where people living with dementia and their care partners can live, engage, and thrive in community with others. Yorktown, Indiana received their Dementia Friendly Community Certification on August 1, 2024!
LifeStream was able to partner with members of the Yorktown Town Council, Yorktown Library, and local business Senior Helper’s staff to drive the initiative right here to East Central Indiana. The Action Team was spearheaded by members of the Town Council drawing local businesses to engage in their community and learn more about dementia. These businesses learned how to make their businesses more dementia friendly and accessible for the people living with dementia and their care partners. If you would like to know more about Dementia Friendly initiatives going on in your community or how you can become a part of this great effort, reach out to LifeStream’s Dementia Outreach Specialists in your area!
For Delaware, Henry, Madison, Grant, Blackford, Jay, & Randolph counties: Christina Davidson at (765) 759-1121 ext. 298 For Fayette, Franklin, Rush, Wayne, & Union counties: Kelly Smith at (765) 759-1121 ext. 297