With the holidays just around the corner, it’s important to remember the seniors in your family. The holidays can be stressful for even the most laid-back folks, so imagine the toll on those who are not used to all the hustle and bustle in their lives.
It’s a festive time of year, but it can also be a stressful time of year, especially for older people. Seniors can become easily overwhelmed with all the shopping, too much food, too many parties, sending out cards, and the list goes on! By being sensitive to those feelings and planning accordingly, everyone can have a good time.
Here are a few tips for folks to get through the holiday season.
Set reasonable expectations: Don’t push your seniors to do everything and try and stick to their schedule. If they’re used to eating at 5 p.m. and you eat at 9 p.m., that can be a trigger and cause tension.
Remember downtime is important: Make sure they have time to rest. If they are staying with you, make sure they have a place to take a quiet walk, their own room, or a place to take a nap. And as much as grandparents love and enjoy their grandkids, they need a break from them too!
Include old and new traditions: Traditions can be wonderful and comforting because they bring back memories. Be sensitive to their traditions as you create new ones with your own family. Try incorporating the old with the new. If it was their tradition to chop down the tree, maybe the new tradition is everyone decorates the tree together. The key is to talk about it. There is no right or wrong way to celebrate the holidays.
Remember those who aren’t with you. If they are far away, send small packages. If they are in a nursing home or assisted living, why not gather a group together and sing Christmas carols. You’ll not only brighten their day, but also bring something special to those who may not get visitors during the holidays.
Give the gift of time: Remember, they want to be with you. Don’t spend all day cooking. Order in, buy theatre tickets and spend some time with them. It you’re alone or can’t be with a senior this holiday season, volunteer! The gift of time is the best gift you can give.
For more information, please contact Mary Dembkowski or Kristelle Padilla at Summerhill Villa, 661-254-9933.