November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, a time that always reminds me why our work matters so deeply. I’ve met so many families who are walking the road of memory loss with a loved one - often doing their best to hold onto moments of connection, joy, and comfort in the middle of so much change.
As the holidays approach, I find myself thinking about how powerful those moments really are. Because when Alzheimer’s is part of your family’s story, it’s not just about big memories, it’s about the little ones that still happen every single day.
The Heart of Connection
Alzheimer’s can slowly take away names, dates, and details, but it never takes away emotion. Even when words start to fade, your loved one can still feel love, kindness, and comfort.
Sometimes it’s as simple as humming a familiar song while cooking together. Other times, it’s sitting quietly and holding their hand while looking through old photos. I’ve seen caregivers and family members bring out smiles and laughter just by talking about favorite traditions or the smell of a holiday meal that sparks recognition.
Those small, shared moments are where connection lives.
Recognizing Subtle Signs During the Holidays
The holiday season often brings family members together, and for many, it’s when subtle signs of cognitive decline become more noticeable.
You might see things like:
- Struggling to follow conversations
- Forgetting names or repeating stories
- Withdrawing from group activities
- Difficulty planning or organizing around familiar traditions
If you notice changes like these, it’s okay to acknowledge them with care. Early recognition allows families to plan for support, reduce stress, and help your loved one stay safe and comfortable at home.
Home care can play a big role in this, especially when it’s focused on personalized care that supports daily routines, social engagement, and companionship.
How to Create Joyful, Calm Moments
As you prepare for the holidays, here are a few ways to make this season meaningful for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s:
- Keep routines steady. Big changes in schedule or environment can feel disorienting. Try to keep mealtimes, rest, and activities as familiar as possible.
- Simplify celebrations. Large gatherings can be overwhelming. A smaller, quieter get-together may bring more comfort.
- Use sensory connection. Familiar smells, songs, or decorations can spark positive memories even if conversation is difficult.
- Be present, not perfect. You don’t have to “fix” the moment, just share it. Sometimes presence matters more than words.
You’re Not Alone
If you’re caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, I want you to know you’re not alone, and you don’t have to do it all yourself. Many families we support tell us that having an extra set of hands, and a kind heart they can trust, makes all the difference.
At Homewatch CareGivers of Sterling, our caregivers understand the importance of patience, familiarity, and compassion. We focus on making sure your loved one feels valued and respected, and that you have the support you need to keep going, too.
This November, let’s take a moment to celebrate every laugh, every smile, and every quiet connection that reminds us love is stronger than memory.
If you’d like to learn more about in-home memory care or resources for Alzheimer’s support, our team is always here to talk. Reach out to us today for compassionate care you can count on.