The holidays can bring mixed feelings for many seniors as they may remember holidays of the past and realize how much their lives have changed. Many seniors are dealing with the loss of loved ones and that feeling of loss can be magnified during the holidays. Also, many seniors face the loss of certain capabilities they once had. But with a little effort, families and caregivers can find many ways to make the holidays a special time for their loved ones. Creating new traditions can be enriching and enjoyable for the elderly as well as other members of the family.
In planning a holiday celebration, be sure to include your senior and ask them how they would like to celebrate. It is important to keep the senior’s rountines and preferences in mind; too much change can contribute to anxiety so we need to be careful about not overwhelming them.
For family members who provide care for seniors, please consider encouraging seniors to participate in the preparations as much as they are able. For example, even if they can’t cook, they can contribute recipes and suggestions for the holiday meal. Contributing to the planning and preparations can help all family members fulfill their sense of purpose and belonging. Seniors might help decorate baked goods, put stamps on outgoing holiday cards, set the holiday table, or pass out gifts to open. If there are dexterity or vision problems, the caregiver can help address envelopes or write note cards.
The following activities are great ideas for all families that include senior members:
Get children and teens involved with their grandparents. The caregiver can provide holiday and craft materials for the senior and children to help make up centerpieces for the holiday table. Scrapbooking is also fun; use family pictures or take candid shots of the loved one. These kinds of activities can go a long way to strengthening those family bonds.
During a holiday dinner, shine a "spotlight" on each person at the table, with each guest offering a story that demonstrates why this person is special. You could write the comments on 3x5 cards and give them wrapped in ribbon or mounted in a collage.
Encourage the giving spirit by helping the loved one go through pantry, linens, and clothing to find things to donate to a shelter or charity.
Gather loved ones and rent “The Nutcracker” musical; serve with some special holiday treats. Another idea is to take the senior on an outing to a local church or school to see a holiday choir perform.
Senior Helpers can help those seniors who need some assistance with holiday preparations by providing companions who are screened, bonded, and insured. We want our seniors to have the best holiday season possible! Contact us at www.seniorhelpers.com.
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