The holiday season is a time for joy and connection, but for families with loved ones in senior living or skilled nursing communities, it can bring unique challenges. Many aging individuals face feelings of isolation or sadness, particularly if they are unable to spend the holidays with their families. However, with thoughtful planning and intentional actions, families can ensure their loved ones feel included, valued, and celebrated during this special time.
Here are specific strategies to help families create a positive holiday experience for their loved ones in a senior living or skilled nursing community:
Visit Whenever Possible
A physical visit is one of the most impactful ways to bring joy to your loved one. Even a brief visit can brighten their spirits and remind them they are cherished. If possible, coordinate with other family members to maximize the number of visits throughout the holiday season.
- Plan Ahead: Check the community’s holiday schedule to ensure your visit doesn’t conflict with planned activities your loved one might enjoy.
- Bring Festive Cheer: Consider bringing holiday decorations if allowed, a small tree, or a wreath to brighten their living space. Personal touches, such as family photos or a homemade ornament, can make their environment feel more festive and familiar.
- Don’t forget the treats! If you can – bring family favorite treats – be it a meal or Grandma’s favorite cookies, keeping traditions alive will bring smiles to faces.
Include Them in Family Celebrations – Virtually or In Person
If your loved one is unable to travel home for the holidays, find creative ways to include them in family gatherings:
- Virtual Participation: Use video calls to let them join the celebration. Position the screen where they can see the family opening gifts, enjoying meals, or singing carols. At Noble Horizons we ensure our staff helps with all the technology to keep our residents connected – it’s the special touches that count!
- Plan an In-Community Celebration: If travel is not an option, bring the family celebration to them. Many senior living communities have spaces where families can gather for private events. Again, make it special -bring a meal, exchange gifts, and share stories.
Assess Their Ability to Spend Time at Home
If your loved one is physically able, consider bringing them home for the holidays. Before making this decision, discuss it with their healthcare provider and the staff at the community to ensure it is safe and feasible.
- Prepare Their Home Visit: Make necessary accommodations, such as ensuring there are ramps for wheelchairs or providing a quiet space where they can rest if needed. Inquire about home nursing visits if needed during their staff to avoid interruption in continuity of care.
- Transportation and Timing: Plan transportation carefully, and avoid long, exhausting days. Keep the visit short if they tire easily, and ensure they feel comfortable at all times.
Participate in Community Holiday Events
Many senior living and skilled nursing communities and or their surrounding towns host special holiday events, such as musical performances, crafts, or festive meals. Joining your loved one for these activities can enhance their sense of belonging and provide an opportunity to celebrate together.
- Get Involved: Volunteer to help with community events or contribute to their holiday programming by bringing treats, helping with decorations, or assisting with an activity.
- Make It Personal: If your loved one enjoys specific traditions, such as lighting a menorah or reading a favorite holiday story, find ways to incorporate these into the community celebration.
Live Far Away? Stay Connected with Thoughtful Gestures
For families who live far away and cannot visit in person, thoughtful gestures can bridge the gap and make your loved one feel remembered and LOVED!
- Send Holiday Cards: Encourage all family members, including grandchildren, to send cards or drawings. A steady stream of mail can bring daily joy.
- Personalized Gifts: Choose meaningful gifts that suit their needs and interests, such as cozy blankets or books. The best presents are often photos or even videos.
- Schedule Regular Calls: Create a holiday call schedule, ensuring they receive frequent phone or video calls throughout the season.
Collaborate with Staff
The staff at senior living and skilled nursing communities are often eager to help families make the holidays special for their residents. When their residents are happy – they are happy!!
- Communicate Needs: Share your loved one’s holiday traditions or special requests with staff so they can incorporate these into their care or activities.
- Express Gratitude: The holiday season is a great time to show appreciation for the staff who care for your loved one. A thank-you note or small token of appreciation can go a long way in building a positive relationship.
Be Mindful of Emotional Well-Being
The holidays can sometimes bring up feelings of sadness or loss, especially for seniors who are unable to celebrate as they once did. Pay attention to their emotional needs and offer support.
- Encourage Reflection: Help them share stories about past holidays or loved ones they miss. This can be a healing and affirming experience.
- Focus on Positivity: Shift the focus to the aspects of the season they can enjoy, such as music, decorations, or their favorite holiday foods.
- Stay Attuned to Signs of Loneliness: If you notice signs of sadness or withdrawal, talk with the community’s staff to explore ways to provide additional emotional support.
Keep the Spirit Alive After the Holidays
The period following the holidays can sometimes feel anticlimactic, especially for seniors. Plan follow-up visits or send small tokens of care to remind them they remain an integral part of your family’s life year-round.
Make it merry & bright!
While it’s not always possible to be physically present with aging loved ones during the holidays, small, intentional actions can make a big difference in their experience. Whether through visits, virtual connections, or meaningful gestures, families can ensure their loved ones feel included and cherished.
It’s important to remember that every senior’s situation is unique. Always consult with their healthcare provider or community staff before making decisions about travel, visits, or new activities to ensure their safety and comfort.
By making the effort to include and celebrate with your loved ones in senior living or skilled nursing communities, you can give them the greatest holiday gift of all: the reassurance that they are loved and valued, no matter where they are.