Red, white, and blue…the Fourth of July is a day of celebrating with BBQs, outdoor activities, and fireworks. While large community gatherings have changed this year, the tradition of fireworks is still taking place in many communities throughout the country. While fireworks can bring great excitement to many, that is not always the case for those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Your loved one may have once loved fireworks, but Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias may cause them to react differently. The loud noise from fireworks can become unfamiliar and create confusion and fear, which can intensify anxiety and agitation. Each pound of firework explosive carries an average of 150 decibels of sound, the same sound level of a jet plane taking off and significant enough to cause ear drum rupture. The disease can also cause one’s hearing to become more sensitive than before, which can exacerbate the sound and cause additional distress. Additionally, the flashing lights and changing colors may also trigger fear leading to increased agitation and anxiety.
If fireworks cause anxiety and fear for your loved one, these suggestions may help reduce the stress:
- Encourage your loved one to talk about fireworks. Did they find fireworks exciting and fun or too loud and scary?
- Remind your loved one that the celebration is coming up and they may begin to hear fireworks. While they may not recall that you told them, a consistent reminder in a soothing tone can help.
- Early in the day may be a good time to show them a video of fireworks. There are many firework videos available on YouTube. Mute the sound and explain to your loved one that these lights in the sky will happen in your community that night and you will be with them until it’s over.
- If the lights from the video bother them, then close the blinds and drapes in your home before sunset to block out the flashing lights.
- A fan creates the sound of white noise, which can help block out the sound of fireworks. Ear protection (ear plugs or headphones) can also help.
- Fireworks can sound like gunshots, which can be scary, especially if your loved one is a war veteran. If fireworks are expected in your community, play their favorite music or audiobook through headphones to distract them from the noise.
- The Fourth of July can be a great time to form new memories. Ideas of things to do together include making crafts, baking Fourth of July themed desserts, and decorating the house. This can also double as art therapy. Making decorations may have a positive, stimulating effect on those with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
The actions your loved one displays is their way of communicating. As care partners, we must be respectful of their needs and how they are feeling. Implementing precautions to meet your loved one’s needs can lead to an enjoyable day for everyone. We wish you a safe holiday weekend.