Whether you are a family member or a senior caregiver, making an effort to include seniors in holiday activities can make a world of difference. Here’s why it’s essential, along with practical tips on how to keep seniors involved and in high spirits during the holiday season.
Why Inclusion Matters
As we age, our social circles often shrink due to various factors like retirement, the loss of friends or a spouse, and decreased mobility. For seniors, particularly those with limited contact with loved ones, the holidays can highlight feelings of loneliness and sadness.
Isolation can have serious consequences on a senior’s mental and physical health. Studies have shown that loneliness can lead to depression, anxiety, and even cognitive decline. Conversely, feeling included and engaged can boost a senior’s mood, improve cognitive function, and foster a sense of belonging and purpose.
During the holidays, making sure that seniors are not just present but actively participating in the festivities helps them feel valued and loved. It reminds them that they are an integral part of the family or community, which is crucial for their overall well-being.
Simple Ways to Keep Seniors Involved During the Holidays
Here are some ideas to help you keep seniors engaged in the holiday festivities, whether you’re planning activities for a Veteran parent, grandparent, or a resident in a senior care facility.
1. Involve Them in Holiday Preparations
One of the easiest ways to make seniors feel included is to involve them in holiday preparations. This could involve helping to decorate the house, making holiday cards, or baking festive treats together. Keep the following in mind as you complete these tasks:
- Decorating Together: If they are able, invite your senior loved one to help decorate the tree or hang up holiday decorations around the house. If mobility is an issue, bring the decorations to them and let them decide where certain ornaments or decorations should go.
- Baking and Cooking: Many seniors have cherished family recipes that they’ve perfected over the years. Ask them to share these recipes and then spend time baking or cooking together. Even if they can’t physically help, they can still offer guidance and enjoy being part of the process.
- Making Holiday Cards: Crafting holiday cards is a wonderful way to get creative and share the holiday spirit. Seniors can help with simple tasks like writing messages, stamping envelopes, or decorating the cards with stickers or drawings.
2. Create New Traditions Together
While it’s important to honor old traditions, creating new ones can also bring joy and excitement to seniors. This could be something as simple as the following:
- Holiday Movie Nights: Pick a night to watch classic holiday movies together. Prepare some popcorn, hot chocolate, and cozy blankets to create a warm and festive atmosphere. Let the senior choose some of their favorite films, making it a night they’ll look forward to.
- Virtual Gatherings: If distance or health concerns prevent in-person visits, organize virtual gatherings. Set up video calls with family members and friends so seniors can still participate in the holiday festivities. You can even play games or share meals over the call.
- Special Outings: If the senior is able and willing, plan a special holiday outing, such as visiting a local holiday market, taking a drive to see Christmas lights, or attending a holiday concert. These outings can be a great way to create new memories together.
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3. Encourage Storytelling and Reminiscing
The holidays are a perfect time for seniors to share stories and memories from their past. Encouraging them to talk about their favorite holiday memories helps them feel connected while enriching the holiday experience for everyone else.
Ask seniors to share stories from their childhood holidays, favorite gifts they received, or special traditions they used to follow. These stories can spark meaningful conversations and strengthen family bonds. Additionally, go through old photo albums or scrapbooks together. Looking at pictures from past holidays can evoke fond memories and provide an opportunity to reflect on the good times.
Consider recording these stories, either in writing or as a video, so they can be cherished for years to come. This can also be a lovely way to preserve family history and traditions.
4. Include Them in Gift Giving
Gift giving is a central part of the holiday season, and involving seniors in this tradition can make them feel more connected to the festivities.
Ask seniors to help wrap gifts, write tags, or choose presents for friends and family. They might also enjoy making homemade gifts, such as knitted scarves, baked goods, or personalized crafts. At the same time, when choosing gifts for seniors, consider items that cater to their interests or needs. Personalized gifts, such as a photo calendar featuring family pictures, a cozy blanket, or a puzzle book, can make them feel appreciated and loved.
Aside from traditional material gifts, many seniors find joy in giving back. Consider organizing a donation drive or volunteering at a local charity together. This could involve donating food, clothes, or toys to those in need or simply spending time at a local shelter. Doing this together can foster a sense of purpose and community.
5. Encourage Physical Activity and Fresh Air
Staying active during the holidays is important for seniors’ physical and mental health. Encourage them to participate in light physical activities that are both enjoyable and festive. These activities include:
- Winter Walks: If the weather permits, take a leisurely walk together to enjoy the winter scenery. Dress warmly and make it a fun outing by looking at holiday decorations or visiting a local park.
- Indoor Exercises: If outdoor activities are not possible, consider simple indoor exercises like stretching, yoga, or even dancing to holiday music. These activities can help boost their mood and energy levels.
- Holiday Crafts: Crafting is a fun activity and a good way to keep hands and minds active. Encourage seniors to make holiday decorations, ornaments, or wreaths. These can be used to decorate their living space or given as gifts.
Essential Tips for Senior Caregivers and Family Members
For caregivers and family members, planning inclusive and engaging activities for seniors requires some thought and effort. Here are a few tips to ensure that seniors feel included and valued during this special time of year.
1. Be Patient and Understanding
Seniors may have physical or cognitive limitations that make it difficult for them to participate in activities as they once did. Be patient and understanding, allowing them to engage at their own pace and comfort level. Adapt activities to suit their abilities and encourage them to participate without pressure.
2. Involve Them in Planning
When planning holiday activities, involve seniors in the decision-making process. Ask them what they’d like to do, what traditions are important to them, and how they’d like to celebrate. This gives them a sense of control and ensures that the activities are enjoyable for them.
3. Foster a Sense of Belonging
Make sure that seniors feel like an integral part of the holiday celebrations. This could be as simple as seating them at the center of the table during holiday meals or asking for their opinion on holiday plans. Recognize their contributions, and let them know how much they mean to you.
4. Stay Connected
If you can’t be with your senior loved ones in person, make an effort to stay connected through phone calls, video chats, or even letters. Regular communication during the holidays can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and keep them engaged with the family.
Activities for Seniors: The Bottom Line
The holiday season is a time for connection, love, and creating memories with the people who matter most.
For seniors, feeling included and engaged during this time is essential for their well-being and happiness. By making a concerted effort to involve them in holiday activities, whether through storytelling, crafting, cooking, or simply spending quality time together, you can help ensure that the holidays are a joyful and meaningful experience for everyone.
Whether you’re a family member, home care provider, or caregiver, remember that the small gestures of inclusion and engagement can have a profound impact on a senior’s life. This holiday season, let’s make sure that our seniors feel valued, loved, and truly part of the celebration.
Ensure a Joyful Holiday Season for Your Seniors With AVCC
Make this holiday season memorable for the Veterans in your life by ensuring they feel included and cherished. Reach out to American Veterans Care Connection (AVCC) today to learn how we can help you provide the support and companionship your loved ones deserve.
