Valentine's Day for Caregivers

(edited from 2022)

Valentine’s Day is a holiday many of us spend recognizing and appreciating our significant others. However, if your loved one is living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, this day might also be a painful reminder of the parts of your relationship that have been stolen by the disease.

While it can be difficult to celebrate Valentine’s Day when your partner is unable or unwilling to actively participate, for couples who regularly honoured the day, it could be more painful for both of you, to pretend it doesn’t exist.

Despite many complications that come with the progression of dementia, there are still ways you can stay connected with your loved one, and appreciate them both past and present.

Simply acknowledging your relationship on this day is all you really need to do. Remind them that they are loved, that they love you, and that you continue to share a connection. Here are some activities that can help couples impacted by dementia, connect.

1) bake some heart-shaped cookies.

2) put together a flower arrangement.

3) play music that was meaningful to both of you. Music has been shown to be an effective tool in connecting people living with dementia with care partners and family members.

4) prepare some Valentine's Day cards.

We have designed 3 valentines that are perfect to give to someone who cares for or is living with dementia. Just click the design you like and print from home. These cards are meant to be folded in half and you can sign or write your own greeting on the inside.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Happy Valentine’s Day to all of our York Region families!