The holiday season is typically a time of love, joy and family traditions. But for families with loved ones living with Alzheimer's or dementia, ensuring safe and meaningful celebrations can be challenging, yet the most important priority.

My grandfather, Robert Williamson, was diagnosed with dementia in 2008, and he passed away in April 2018. Witnessing the changes in his daily routines over the years, I began to grasp the impact of this disease. When a close family member experiences challenges, the entire family shares in the experience.

He is one of millions of people in the United States who died from the disease. The Centers for Disease Control reported in 2020 that an estimated 5.8 million people aged 65 years or older had Alzheimer's disease in the U.S. The number is expected to triple to 14 million by 2060. Every 67 seconds, someone in the U.S. develops Alzheimer's, which is an estimated 500,000 new cases a year. Although Alzheimer's and dementia do not have a cure, the Alzheimer's Organization reported that Lecanemab was approved by the FDA as a treatment for early Alzheimer's disease in July. This drug is labeled as Leqembi.

While it does not provide a cure, Lecanemab has demonstrated the ability to slow the progression in the early stages of the disease.

Despite the challenges my grandfather faced after being diagnosed with Alzheimer's, where names and personal connections became elusive to him, I am grateful for the years I spent by his side, cherishing the moments that allowed us to remain emotionally close despite the trials he endured.

Alzheimer's and dementia can bring about significant changes — and losses — in memory and cognition, making it important to approach the holiday season with sensitivity and understanding.

Ginger Hicks, my aunt, made sure to remind her father of happenings as well as names of family members.

"We just tried to explain to him that it was Christmas time," she said. "Some of the families, when they would go see him in the nursing home, would bring him photos of family members to have in his room so he could have them around."

According to the Alzheimer's Organization, bringing back old memories is important to ensure these family members remain close and aware of what is important to them. New memories might not stick, but people with Alzheimer's often retain old memories, which can make it confusing to ground in the current world. However, the organization notes to be mindful that there may be things the person does not want to remember, such as upsetting events and people they miss.

"During Christmas, we kept our gifts to him simple," my aunt told me. "I got him Alabama T-shirts, long sleeve T-shirts, short sleeves, and people with Alzheimer's love sweets, so I gave him a lot of sweet things."

To celebrate the holidays with family members experiencing Alzheimer's or dementia, consider the following tips:

1. Gradual decorations: Introduce Christmas decorations gradually over a few days to avoid a sudden change in the familiar environment.
2. Keep it simple and familiar: Recognize that individuals with Alzheimer's/dementia may feel overwhelmed during the holidays, so opt for low-key activities to promote relaxation.
3. Inclusive activities: Involve these family members in holiday activities such as decorating the tree, Christmas shopping or wrapping presents, preventing a feeling of isolation.
4. Designate quiet spaces: With the hustle and bustle of celebrations, provide a designated quiet room or area within the home for loved ones with Alzheimer's or dementia to relax without excessive noise.
5. Mindful eating: Be conscious of food choices, as a full plate can be overwhelming. Avoid overloading their plates to make mealtime more manageable.

For additional information and tips on navigating the holiday season for families affected by Alzheimer's or dementia, visit the Alzheimer's Association website.