The West Texas Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association said just because someone has Alzheimer’s or dementia doesn’t mean they can’t take part in 4th of July celebrations.
People just need to be mindful of certain things so that they’re more comfortable.
“We recommend for those individuals who are caring for, you know, loved ones with Alzheimer's and dementia when you're getting together to celebrate the holidays, definitely get together to celebrate the holidays, but tailor it; you might make it a smaller gathering. So that person's not overwhelmed by a lot of new faces or make them feel uneasy," said July Gray, director of development for the West Texas Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Gray suggested that "maybe people wear name tags and things like that to help that individual that's living with the disease.”
Gray said it’s recommended to not do fireworks because the loud noises can cause a sensory overload and confusion. A good alternative is letting them watch fireworks on the TV inside. However, if the real fireworks must go on then it’s recommended keeping the individual in a quiet indoor area during them.
Not every case is the same, although, and so it’s always good to ask them about their limits and respect them.
People can also do things like creating patriotic decorations or crafts with your loved one, playing or singing familiar patriotic music, baking 4th of July themed desserts or making a family album with pictures of past Independence Day memories. Those activities can be cognitively stimulating and help your loved one express themselves creatively.
“It's so important that families and friends still include that person that's living with the disease," Gray said. "There's still lots of fun that can be had, new memories, fun memories that can be made. And it's really important for that person living with the disease not to be isolated.”