Helping With The Holidays

Our team has been making holiday plans for our clients who have family out of town. Most of our clients will see family for a short visit, but they won’t have a lot going on in the weeks leading up to Christmas. During this holiday season, we are working to be sensitive to the fact that there may be pressure for people to be involved in and find joy in celebrations. Despite the expectation of a cheerful and merry time, many seniors experience heightened feelings of isolation and discontent during this period. Aging brings inevitable losses. Many older adults have friends with health issues or friends and family that have passed away. Some of our older clients have no friends that are still living. Most seniors have diminishing energy and mobility which can lead to a loss of the ability to engage in holiday activities.

We are working with our client's caregivers, facilities, and families to bring meaningful moments. To foster a sense of love and inclusion for your aging loved one this holiday season, please take a look at the following suggestions.

Remember, the focus is on creating moments of connection and enjoyment in good company.

1. Help them add festive touches to their home or room in the long-term care facility.

    2. Ask about "the olden days" and memories of the Christmas holidays when they were younger.

    3. Sing holiday songs together.
    4. Do a Christmas Moviethon.
    5. Write and send Holiday Cards together.
    6. Bring traditional baked goods or treats.
    7. Look at family photos or watch family videos

If you know of an older adult at home alone during the holidays, Aging Care Management can help coordinate caregivers and activities to make the season meaningful.