Holidays during normal times can be hard for seniors, but in 2020 the holiday season may be even more difficult for many. Holidays disrupt routines, may create the need for travel or may leave seniors distraught and lonely. Some tips to help your senior loved ones enjoy this holiday season include:
- Discuss plans ahead of time and make sure the senior fully understands what to expect in the way of where he or she will be going, the other people who will be in attendance and the safety precautions that will be used to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
- Plan menus to accommodate the senior’s diet. If he or she has dietary restrictions due to high blood pressure or diabetes, make sure there are plenty of healthy options available.
- Include plenty of rest periods into the hectic holiday schedule.
- If you know of a senior who will be spending the holidays alone, reach out and invite them to join in a socially-distanced visit.
If your senior loved one will be flying this holiday season, try to schedule flights during the week as opposed to the busy weekends. Make sure the flyer has a comfortable mask to wear and latex gloves.
Some ideas to safely enjoy the holidays together include:
- Walking around neighborhoods to look at holiday lights and decorations.
- Walking downtown and window gazing.
- Watching classic holiday movies on outdoor projectors.
- Gathering around an outdoor fire.
Most importantly, whether in-person or over the phone, be sure to connect with your senior loved ones by talking about old memories, telling stories and actively listening. This will help to combat seasonal depressive disorder and general loneliness.
At Stouffer Legal, we care about our seniors and we wish you all a happy and safe 2020 holiday season.
