Bring Back the Magic of the Holidays
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, or at least it’s supposed to be. While many Americans are busy preparing for the holidays, the holidays can trigger loneliness and depression for some seniors. Some seniors feel neglected as holiday traditions change to accommodate new members of the family. Other seniors feel burdened by the thought of hosting this year’s family holiday party, even though they’re the patriarch of the family and have been hosting for decades. Still, there are a few seniors who will be facing the first holiday without a precious loved one, such as a spouse or friend.
In the eyes of a child, the holiday season is filled with magic and wonder. Each day brings them one day closer to a visit from St. Nick. Wouldn’t it be a grand gesture to help bring back some of the holiday magic to the senior in your life? If you have an aging loved one who could use a little extra holiday cheer this season, here are a few ideas to help bring back the magic of the holidays.
Deck the Halls Together
The thought of decorating for such a short period of time can be daunting for a senior, especially when they aren’t hosting a holiday event. Yet, decorating can be therapeutic and adds more cheer to the home. It also helps orient seniors with dementia to the proper time of year. Decorating doesn’t need to be on a grand scale. Stick to their favorite holiday treasures. As you deck the halls, reminisce with them about holiday pasts and ask stories about their favorite decorations.
Carol as a Family
Surprise your aging loved one by organizing a family caroling night. This would be particularly special if there is a lot of family that live out-of-town yet are coming in for the holidays. If possible, keep their visit a surprise, then arrange for everyone to show up on your loved one’s front door. Ring the doorbell and start singing your favorite holiday songs. Bring holiday cookies to share with everyone, or pile in the cars and enjoy a special treat at a local cafe. Be sure to bring your aging loved one along too.
See the Lights
Going to see the light displays with your family? Drive by your aging loved one’s home and bring them along too! This is an easy way to add holiday cheer to their lives, especially if they no longer drive themselves. Whether it’s a casual drive through various neighborhoods, or a splurge by taking a Christmas light cruise, your aging loved one’s face is sure to light up.
Decorate Cookies
Spend an afternoon baking with your aging loved one. Use their favorite holiday recipe or keep it simple by decorating plain store-bought sugar cookies. Play your favorite holiday music in the background as you work in the kitchen. This is a great activity to do across multiple generations. Your elderly loved ones can even teach the younger generations their tips and tricks to bake the perfect holiday cookie.
Visit Santa
Your aging loved one may know the truth about Santa, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t stop by for a visit. If you’re taking your children or grandchildren for a visit, ask your loved one to come along. You’ll see their eyes light up as they re-experience the wonder of Santa through the eyes of their grandchildren or great-grandchildren.
Visiting Angels Punta Gorda wishes all our clients a wonderful holiday season. We understand that this time of year is difficult for many seniors. It can also be a difficult time for families caring for aging loved ones. Our compassionate Angels are ready and available to step in so that you can have a break. We can help bring back the magic of the holiday season for both the senior and their family. Our caregivers would be thrilled to engage your aging loved one in a variety of holiday activities. While they’re keeping your loved one safe and comfortable, you can use that time to run errands or enjoy a well-deserved break. Don’t let the holidays leave you frazzled. Contact us today by calling 941-347-8288 Punta Gorda or 239-226-1620 Cape Coral and start receiving the help you need so that you can enjoy the holidays.