Making the Holidays Enjoyable for Seniors

Relatives will travel from near and far to congregate this holiday season. Hosting a large number of guests can be tough enough as it is, but it can be even more stressful for seniors. Guests often disrupt daily routines, leading to unfamiliar situations, but you can help your loved one have an enjoyable holiday season.

Many seniors are unable to leave their homes, which often means holiday gatherings are hosted at their residence. Your elderly family members love being able to see the entire family without having to travel, but guests who stay more than one day can sometimes become a burden for seniors. To ensure holiday parties and visitors are enjoyable and not a burden, consider these holiday planning tips:

• Take the Wheel. Many seniors are used to hosting holiday guests, but when they’re at an age where it becomes too stressful to handle, it’s time for you and other relatives to take the wheel. Plan out all the hosting activities and create a schedule so your elderly relative doesn’t have to shoulder the burden.
  
• Be Inclusive. Seniors who have hosted holiday gatherings in the past my feel depressed by not being able to run things this year. One way you can help them feel included is by giving them non-stressful tasks to complete. For example, you can ask them to write up a schedule of the day’s events, or help with some of the easier cooking tasks. These simple acts will help seniors feel included while taking the bulk of the burden off them.
  
• Watch the Budget. Since many senior citizens live on a fixed budget, remember to keep expenses at a minimum. Avoiding any potential financial stress will make the holidays, as well as the days after, more enjoyable.
  
• Keep the Peace. Keep the kids’ sleeping areas away from older family members. Young children often make noise when talking or playing before bed, which can disrupt your elderly relative’s sleep pattern.
  

Remember to talk with other friends and family who care for seniors. They can offer incredible insight and assistance.

Your local Visiting Angels office has experienced senior caregivers who have experience keeping senior adults comfortable during the holidays. Our senior care services are available throughout the year, but can be especially helpful during the holidays. We can ensure your loved one has the assistance of a friendly senior care provider at home when you can’t be there. For more information about our senior care services, please call your local Visiting Angels office.