The holidays are usually a joyous time for families, but many parties and events can be overwhelming to aging grandparents or elderly family members. As some people grow older, they may lose the physical or cognitive capacity to trim a tree, bake a cake, or spend time outdoors singing carols. Others may find themselves spending their first holiday season away from home in an assisted living facility. Some may have recently lost a close friend or loved one.
“The holidays are a time when families come together to celebrate,” says Segrist, interim director of Ball State’s Fisher Institute for Wellness and Gerontology. “However, there comes a time when older adults may not be able to do all the things they once could. At this point, family members and friends can find ways to include older adults in these traditions or start new ones.”
With a little planning, you can modify your gatherings to meet the needs of everyone in your family.
How to help make the holidays enjoyable for older adults
- Invite seniors to family events, but tailor the level of their participation to their physical abilities.
- Keep lines of communication open by encouraging an older adult to use email, instant messaging and social media. Technology makes communication easier and less expensive.
- Arrange transportation to and from gatherings for elderly family members who don’t drive.
- Consider the nutritional and physical needs of older adults when planning dinners and other activities.
- Ask grandparents and senior family members for input when planning activities.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest information regarding health topics of concern to seniors.
- When a family member can no longer live in his or her own home, consider a nursing home that embraces the Eden Alternative. These long-term care facilities foster a family atmosphere with the inclusion of pets, plants and children.
Grandparents want to be involved. Make a point to include them in your family events throughout the year.
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