Holiday Planning for Seniors & Caregivers

Text Size: A A

posted by Ted Ryan on December 04, 2018

The holiday season is upon us. In song, it may be considered the “most wonderful time of the year,” but for many the holiday season can also be quite stressful. This is especially true for family caregivers. Planning for the holidays (and getting in the holiday spirit) can be a challenge.

Luckily, a bit of planning and adjusted expectations can help everyone experience a joyous holiday season with loved ones. The key is simplifying preparations and expectations. Here are a few tips for cutting down stress and getting the most out of your holiday season.

• Simplify preparations. Cut back to just a handful of decorations that are meaningful to you. Consider buying prepared meals from the grocery store to save time and energy. Things don’t have to be perfect – do only what you can manage.
• Ask for help when you need it. Also, have a list of things you need help with. When people offer to help, you’ll have concrete options for them to choose from.
• Be flexible and forgiving. Accept that your family and traditions are changing.
• Prepare senior loved ones and guests for what to expect. Remind seniors who they will be seeing (but also accept that those with dementia may still forget names and relations). Inform guests of changes to expect in senior loved ones so that they are not caught off guard.
• Maintain normal routines. During the holidays it’s easy to let healthy habits slip. Enjoy holiday treats and festivities, but also try to eat healthy meals, limit alcohol and keep sleep patterns as close to normal as possible.

Make things as easy on yourself and others as possible so you can focus on enjoying your time together. Be good to yourself and cut yourself (and others) some slack. Your holiday experience will change but enjoying the holidays with loved ones shouldn’t.

If we can help you and your loved ones during this busy time of year, please contact us. We team with families to improve the quality of life for seniors.
 

« Fall Fun for St. Louis Seniors & their Families Including Seniors in Valentine’s Day Celebrations »

Join the Discussion

Seniors Home Care reserves the right to remove anything deemed inappropriate, off-topic or otherwise questionable; however, we have no responsibility to do so.