The holiday season can be a depressing time of year for seniors. Winter alone creates feelings of depression and loneliness due to the cold and lack of outdoor activities. When the snow flies there are days when the roads are not passable. For the senior population, most are forced to remain inside because going outside poses a high risk of falling on the ice. That danger is even higher for those seniors living in secluded areas. Falling outside in the winter can be deadly.
Now add the holidays… A time of year that should bring joy and happiness to all. For some seniors, this will be the first holiday they spend without their spouse. Perhaps their children live in other states and are unable to come home for the holidays. Each year, too many seniors go unnoticed during the holiday season. You can change that. The following are some ideas on how to help make the holiday season a little more fulfilling for a senior. Offer to take them shopping for gifts and then help wrap the gifts.
- Invite them over for your holiday gatherings. Offer to pick them up and take them back home.
- When you visit a loved one, don’t forget their roommate or neighbor. Perhaps “adopt” a senior, to help ease their “holiday blues.” These individuals not only need recognition and a friendly visitor, but can always use personal care items or small pleasures and a friendly visit. Be prepared to listen, listen and listen!
- Ask your local hospital, nursing home or assisted living facility if they have residents who don’t get many visitors. Donate items or gifts they may need.
- A simple card or small gift can brighten someone’s day.
- Most importantly, offer your time. Spending an hour with a senior who has no one to talk to can be a life changing hour.
Just remember that it is the thought that counts. Sometimes just calling someone is enough to brighten their day. This holiday season, show a senior that you care and appreciate what they have done for you and your community. Don’t let another holiday season go by without showing your appreciation.
Contact Compassionate Care Home Health Services, expert providers of home care in Midland, MI and the surrounding areas, to learn more about how we can help seniors you love during the holidays.