The holidays are a time for family and friends, and it is important to find ways to make sure that aging family members can participate in annual traditions. When gathering together, whether for a brief visit or a special local activity, be sensitive to the needs and challenges that older loved ones can have when it comes to some activities and find them enjoyable and engaging. As we gather together, find enjoyable and engaging ways to feel the holiday cheer. Here are some suggestions.
Festive Activities to Enjoy Together
Baking and Cooking Together
Family recipes can go back generations, and special meals often feature treasured dishes passed down from parent to child. Keep up the tradition by spending time in the kitchen learning the secret tips and tricks from the older family members to produce beloved cookies or savory dishes. This time spent together can involve all ages and include storytelling about past meals and times spent together. The aromas wafting through the house are an added bonus.
Decorating the Home
Home decorating for the holidays often includes a variety of steps, some more complex than others. Working together to pull out the annual decorations and deciding how to arrange them for the season is a great joint activity. The very oldest and very youngest family members can participate in the layout and some of the simpler decorating activities, making them feel like they are a part of the process.
Holiday Movie Marathon
An evening can be all the cozier with the entire family settled in for a holiday movie marathon. Choose classics that the whole family can enjoy, and relax with snacks and beverages for a low-key activity that lets everyone spend time together.
Crafting and DIY Projects
Get creative with holiday-themed crafts. Making homemade ornaments, wreaths, or holiday cards can be a fun and fulfilling way to spend time together. Tailor the complexity of the projects to match the abilities and interests of your aging family member.
Memory Sharing Sessions
For families that live apart and even those whose busy lives don’t always allow them to focus on older relatives, the holidays are an opportunity to hear the stories, gather the wisdom, and learn from the experiences of older family members. Consider topics like favorite holiday memories or diving deeper into family history. It’s a great idea to record these sessions to preserve the memories.
Recognizing Signs That an Older Family Member May Need Help
While the holidays are a time of joy, they also provide an opportunity to observe the well-being of our aging family members. Here are some signs to look out for that may indicate they need some extra help:
Changes in Physical Appearance
Noticeable weight loss, changes in personal hygiene, or an overall decline in grooming can be signs that your family members are struggling to take care of themselves.
Mobility and Balance Issues
If you observe difficulty walking, frequent falls, or hesitancy to move around, it may be time to discuss mobility aids or modifications to the person’s living environment to ensure their safety.
Cognitive Changes
Forgetfulness, confusion, or difficulty following conversations and tasks can indicate cognitive decline. Be attentive to these signs, as they may require professional evaluation.
Emotional and Behavioral Changes
Look out for signs of depression, anxiety, or withdrawal from social activities. These changes in mood and behavior can signal that your loved one is feeling isolated or overwhelmed.
Difficulty Managing Daily Tasks
Struggles with basic tasks such as cooking, cleaning, managing medications, or handling finances can be red flags that your family member needs additional support.
Combining fun holiday activities with mindful observation ensures that your aging family member feels included, loved, and well-cared for. The holidays are a time to cherish each other’s company and create beautiful memories while staying vigilant to any signs that extra help may be required. If you observe that your family member may need additional assistance, here are some services that CarePlus offers. Contact us to learn more.
Enjoy this special season with your family, and may your holidays be filled with warmth and joy.
