ACCOMMODATIONS to help make the holidays truly special
Including your aging loved ones during holiday celebrations can sometimes be a challenge. While it may call for extra planning and coordination, the effort is well-worth it: sharing our holiday table with older family members enriches our experience, helps strengthen family bonds and create warm and meaningful memories that will be treasured for many years to come.
Attending to the needs of older family members during the holidays can generally be divided into the following categories: mobility & travel, diet & medicine, memory, and money. Here are several tips to help you make the most of the holiday season with your older loved ones.
MOBILITY and Travel
Consider that mobility limitations may make it difficult for your elderly family member to leave home. Discuss with the family how best to accommodate your elderly family member – perhaps some of the usual holiday festivities can be moved to their home.
Be mindful of mobility limitations when it comes to holiday travel. If bringing your family member to your home, be sure you bring along whatever assistive devices they may use.
For example, in a home other than their own, the elderly may not have all of the devices and equipment they use in their own home (i.e. grab bars in the shower), so they may need extra assistance or supervision.
Consider having the senior sleep on first floor and near a bathroom.
Utilize nightlights in hallways and remove throw rugs to prevent tripping.
If extended travel is involved, a senior may require rest upon arrival before socializing with family. Provide a chance for them to watch TV or take a nap.
Diet and Medicine
Keep in mind any special dietary restrictions your family member may have, such as low-salt or low-sugar, as well as any necessary accommodations they may need, such as soft foods.
Make sure you are aware of and follow their medication regimen—what they take and when.
Encourage continued exercise if it is safe. While holidays are sometimes synonymous with inclement weather, stick to an exercise schedule if possible by dressing warmly and accompany the senior for a walk around the block (if the sidewalks are in good condition and not covered in ice or snow).
Memory
For those elderly family members who may have dementia or be confused, try not to overwhelm them with loud noises, too many people, or unfamiliar places. Try to keep to their usual routine as much as possible.
Talk with your elderly family member about holiday traditions and memories they recall from their younger years. Perhaps it would be possible to incorporate some of these things into your current holiday celebrations to help them feel more included and remembered.
Money
Be mindful of the senior’s financial constraints when it comes to gift giving. Fixed incomes can present a challenge for purchasing gifts for many family members. To reduce stress, consider a family grab bag where everyone contributes to one gift.
If All Else Fails
Finally, if your family member is far from the rest of the family and will be alone for the holidays, be sure let them know you are still thinking about them by sending a card and/or gift or calling more often than usual. Be sure to encourage other family members to do the same. Additionally, see if you can make alternative arrangements for your loved one to celebrate with friends who are close by.
H3329_2019_BLOGIncludingAgingLovedOnes Approved 12182019
Last updated December 3, 2019
