The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy, togetherness and celebration. But for many families, especially those with aging loved ones, it can be a time of stress and uncertainty. As we want to bring joy to our loved ones, we also face the reality of their changing needs and the emotional and logistical challenges of caregiving. Whether your elderly family members are in their later years or managing a chronic condition, you can create a holiday environment that brings them joy – and makes caregiving a little easier – with a bit of thought and care.
In this post, we’ll share tips, resources, and ideas on how to make the holidays brighter for your aging loved ones and simplify caregiving. We want to ensure they feel seen and included and reduce the stress and overwhelm that can come with the season.
Simplify Holiday Gatherings to Feel Comfortable
Holiday celebrations often center around big family gatherings. Still, for some elderly individuals, the idea of big, loud events can be overwhelming. The holiday season doesn’t have to be big or fancy to be joyful. Simplifying holiday gatherings can help your aging loved ones feel included and comfortable.
Consider smaller, more intimate gatherings: A quieter, low-key holiday celebration may be much more enjoyable for someone with mobility issues, sensory sensitivities or health conditions. Fewer guests and less noise mean they can participate in conversations and enjoy the festivities.
Adjust the timing: If your loved one is tired or has limited energy, consider having a midday or early evening gathering. That way, they can join in without feeling exhausted or stressed.
Include their traditions: Honor their favorite holiday traditions, whether it’s watching a favorite Christmas movie, baking cookies together or sharing old family stories. These small, meaningful traditions will create a sense of connection and bring back happy memories.
Simplify Travel for Aging Loved Ones
Traveling during the holidays can be stressful for everyone. Still, it can be especially tough for seniors with mobility issues, health concerns or dementia. If your elderly loved one can’t travel or doesn’t want to travel, consider how you can bring the holiday to them.
Virtual gatherings: Many families now use virtual platforms like Zoom or FaceTime for holiday connections. If your loved one can’t attend in person, this is an easy way to have them “join” the celebrations. You can set up a tablet or laptop in a central location during the family meal or activity so they don’t miss out.
Arrange travel assistance: If your loved one needs to travel to family gatherings, consider arranging extra help. Many airports and transportation services offer assistance to seniors, such as wheelchair services, priority seating, and luggage assistance. By planning ahead, you can ensure they feel comfortable and cared for during the journey.
Use Technology
Health monitoring devices: If your aging loved one has a health condition, consider using wearables like medical alert systems, fitness trackers or devices that can monitor vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure. These devices will give you peace of mind and alert you if something goes wrong so you can enjoy the holidays without worrying.
Video calls and virtual entertainment: Many older adults enjoy staying connected with loved ones through video calls. Consider setting up a video call with distant family members or inviting them to watch a holiday movie or concert online. These shared experiences will help your loved one feel connected even if they’re not physically present.
Digital photo frames: A digital photo frame is an excellent gift for elderly loved ones. Family members can upload new photos to the frame, which will constantly remind them of family love and the holiday season.
Help with Practical Tasks
The holidays bring extra tasks and responsibilities like cooking, decorating or running errands. For seniors with mobility or energy issues, these tasks can be overwhelming. Helping with these tasks will take some of the load off their shoulders and create a more relaxed holiday.
Cook together: Cooking is a great way to bond with your loved ones. Even if your elderly family member can’t do all the work, they may enjoy contributing to the meal by helping with simple tasks like mixing ingredients, setting the table or making a dish they’ve always made during the holidays.
Assist with holiday shopping: Holiday shopping can be overwhelming, especially if your loved one doesn’t have the energy or ability to go to the stores. Offer to help by making a shopping list or doing the shopping for them. Alternatively, set up online shopping so they can still be part of the process and pick out gifts for others.
Decorate the home: Decorations bring joy and help set the mood. If your loved one loves decorating for the holidays, involve them in the process by letting them choose where to put certain items or hang a special ornament together.
Think About Their Health
When it comes to aging loved ones health and comfort should always be top of mind especially during the holidays. The holiday season can sometimes distract us from their needs, so be mindful of their physical and mental health.
Monitor dietary needs: Many seniors have dietary restrictions, whether due to health conditions like diabetes or heart disease or simple preferences. Take the time to make sure they can enjoy the holiday meal without sacrificing their health.
Offer respite care: If you’re a primary caregiver, the holidays can bring added stress, especially if you’re also managing a busy family schedule. Hiring a professional caregiver or asking for help from other family members will give you a much-needed break. At the same time, your loved one still gets the care they need.
Mind their mental health: The holiday season can be tough for seniors, especially if they’re dealing with loss or isolation. Check-in on their mental health and offer emotional support when needed. Just sitting down for a chat or being present can go a long way.
How to Manage Caregiving Expenses
Caregiving during the holidays means additional expenses, whether for medical supplies, special meals or caregiving help. Managing shared caregiving expenses between family members can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be.
With SupportPay, families can split payments, track and manage costs fairly and keep everything in one place. This is especially helpful during the holidays when the financial burden can feel heavier. By using SupportPay to split, track, and share caregiving expenses, you can focus on what really matters: spending time with your loved one and making the holiday season a time of joy and connection.
Give the Gift of Yourself
At the end of the day, the most meaningful gift you can give your aging loved one is your time and self. Whether you’re reminiscing over old memories, watching their favorite holiday movie, or just sitting together, those moments create memories that will bring joy for years to come.
While the holiday season can be busy, and we may be tempted to focus on material gifts, remember the gift of self is often the most valuable. Sometimes, just showing up for your loved one can make all the difference and be the greatest comfort.