The holiday season is coming in fast and with it, the challenge of making this time of year festive without feeling overwhelmed. Covid has taken a toll on the traditional celebrations you or a loved one have been accustomed to that go years back. These five suggestions can help you or your loved one enjoy the holidays by finding ways to participate with the help of a caregiver or family member.
1. Keep It Simple
Perhaps the easiest way to help a senior deal with holiday stress is to simply do less. Break family dinners into smaller groups to keep your loved one engaged. Focus on the traditions your family likes the most and forego those that do not bring you joy. Remember, everything does not have to be perfect; do what works for you or your loved one and let the rest go.
2. Bake Together
Your senior may find holiday baking a favorite activity, but he or she may not be able to manage all the tasks independently. You or a caregiver can take on the more strenuous tasks of mixing and cleaning up, while your senior can sit at a table and decorate cookies before they go into the oven.
3. See the Lights
Does your community host a holiday light display? If so, strap your loved one in the passenger seat and drive around to see all the merry and bright decorations. If you do not have one large venue to visit, just go through some local neighborhoods to see the houses decked out in their holiday best.
4. Wrap Gifts
If your senior has arthritis or motor skill limitations, wrapping gifts may be more of a chore than a delight. You or a caregiver can help your loved one with gift wrapping to make it fun. This team approach can help your senior feel useful, and you can turn the task into quality time by telling stories or listening to holiday music.
5. Sit and Relax
Wouldn’t you and your loved one enjoy a quiet afternoon or evening spent by the fireplace with a warm cup of tea or cocoa to sip? Perhaps popping popcorn and watching an old holiday movie is more your speed. Either way, you can sit and enjoy each other’s company without a major production.
The holidays should be joyful, not stressful. If you or your loved one needs assistance this season or any time of year, contact Home Helpers of Drexel Hill. Our caregiver team is happy to help your senior maintain the best quality of life with care and companionship. Contact us to learn more about our services.