NEVER FORGET: Tipping our hats to our ultimate heroes on ‘Veterans Day’

As we celebrate Veteran’s Day this year, although a little different than the past years, we also commemorate the immense sacrifice and heroism of all the brave American men and women who made it possible for us to enjoy life as we know it today.

Most of us may have come across stories of valor, bravery, and honor of the great war veterans who live in our midst. Perhaps, it may have come through films, documentaries, or even books retelling their exploits. They answered the call of duty when the country needed them the most, and for that, we will forever be indebted to them.

Watch the video below to find out more:

According to the History Channel, around 18.2 million living veterans have served in at least one war as of 2018 (and about 9% of this number are women).With their aging population (49% of them are aged 65-years old and above today), they are now at an even greater risk for Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.

In fact, a separate study noted that about 423,000 new cases of Alzheimer’s disease and dementias may have also occurred in the United States within the last decade.

Another study also revealed that someone in the country develops Alzheimer’s or dementia every 65 seconds. In 30 more years, this is expected to occur at an even faster rate of 33 seconds.
Burnout is normal especially if you’re working full time while taking care of the needs of the family. Do not feel bad. This is just a sign that you need a professional carer to help you in taking care of your elderly loved ones. Reuser, delegation of tasks is okay.

All these facts only highlight the greater need for families to support our veterans as they continue enjoying the rewards of their historic feats. Here are some ways families can celebrate Veterans Day, particularly for senior with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.
You should get a professional caregiver so there’s someone who will look after your loved ones’ safety since they can be now prone to slips and falls.

Get crafty with artsy ‘Thank You’ cards

Bring out your creative side or ask the children to help you put together colorful thank you cards for the veteran in the family. They can draw and doodle, do arts and crafts, or even make pop-up cards for them.

Prepare a sumptuous Veterans Day feast at home

Celebrate their special day by whipping out their favorite dishes for a special family lunch. Make sure that you include healthy and nutritious items in your feast. Check out our previous blog detailing some of the best food items for seniors with dementia. Better yet, you can go over some of the most celebrated family recipes for their favorites and ask them to help you if they can. This may even make them smile by striking happy memories, which can help them deal with their bout against dementia.

Engage them in an afternoon of reminiscing

Bring out the old family albums that you’ve stowed away somewhere in the cupboard. Check out some old family photos and let them revisit some pleasant memories during a weekend afternoon. Nothing beats great stories, a hearty afternoon snack, and warm company for our veterans on their special day!

Gift them with something great to read

Find a good book that suits their interests from your local library or download an audio book that they may get hooked on. Reading is one good way to keep them busy and keep them engaged mentally.

We’ve also shared some rewarding activities for your loved ones living dementia a few weeks back. Check it out here!

Whatever you may be planning for your seniors at home, reuser that spending worthwhile moments with them will always be the best way to celebrate their special day.

Read next:
Five signs your loved ones need special, professional caregiver

NEVER FORGET: Tipping our hats to our ultimate heroes on ‘Veterans Day’