As our focus turns to the upcoming holidays, we are reminded of the many blessings we have in our lives. In addition to all the joy, many of us find peace and comfort in reflecting on our family traditions and our lifetime memories. Amidst the hustle and bustle, I urge you to remember to focus on the magic of the holiday season.
For our older adult loved ones, we can help them to embrace the traditions of the past as well as create new traditions. Here are five simple ways that we can make the holiday season brighter and more magical for all members of our family, especially for older adults living alone or in senior living, assisted living, and memory care communities.
- Focus of the Magic.
This is an easy one. What makes your holidays special? Is it making homemade ornaments or holiday wreaths? Wrapping gifts by the fireplace? Building gingerbread houses? This year, ask your loved ones what makes their holidays magical.
If your loved one lives in a senior living, assisted living, or memory care community that Gardant manages, talk to a team member about reserving one of our many community areas where all are welcome to gather together, with those they love most, to bake cookies, work together on a holiday arts and crafts project, or enjoy a hot beverage while reminiscing around the fireplace.
If you are stumped for ideas, there are many free resources available on the web. If you visit the Daily Caring website, read this article on 20 holiday activities for seniors. If your loved one is living with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, you can find tips on the Mayo Clinic website for making the holidays more enjoyable.
- Deck the Halls
Science tells us that putting up holiday decorations makes us happier. Deborah Serani, a clinical psychologist, told TODAY Home, “Christmas decorating will spike dopamine, a feel-good hormone.” Enjoy decorating alongside your loved one with simple, personalized decorations. The goal of simplicity with decorations is to ensure environments are safe and free from clutter that may cause confusion and increase the risk of falling. If holiday lights are part of the décor in the home of your loved one living with dementia, opt for white lights that stay on consistently rather than lights that flash or blink as flashing or blinking can cause disorientation.
While you “deck the halls” of their house, townhome or apartment, turn on some of their favorite holiday music as research indicates a positive correlation between music and mood. If holiday décor or holiday music evoke unpleasant memories or emotions, start a new tradition.
- The Magic of Traditions
Although the holiday season is dubbed “the most wonderful time of the year,” it is natural to feel a void when a cherished family member is no longer with us on earth. If an old tradition arouses distress or sadness, it is never too late to start something new. One idea is to participate as a family in an activity to honor the loved one. Through choosing a new tradition that values the loved one’s interests, we are fulfilling their legacy. It might be volunteering at a local food pantry, helping to wrap gifts for a family in need, boxing items or placing a bow on the package. Afterall, our loved ones live on through the magic of memories, not necessarily old traditions.
- Light Up Their World
Host a family party at your loved one’s home. If your loved one resides in a senior living, assisted living, or memory care community, reach out to determine what areas are available for reservation as most have a private dining room or other common space available for residents and their loved ones. Have members of your family bring in favorite dishes to share. Play games. Get silly props and take pictures with a Polaroid camera. By hosting the holiday party in your loved one’s home, you are bringing the magic of togetherness into your loved one’s world.
- Time – The Most Magical Gift of All
Time is the greatest gift that you can give a loved one. Jim Elliott, a Christian missionary, once said, “wherever you are, be all there.” When you are together, be fully present by listening, engaging in conversation, and setting aside as many distractions as possible. Reminisce while looking at old photographs and listening to musical favorites. Be curious – ask about old holiday traditions from when your loved one was a child. Your heart will be filled with a collection of cherished memories. And you loved one will benefit from your love, time and attention.
My wish for you this holiday season is that you never stop believing in the magic of the holidays. May the magic fill your heart with love, your mind with wonder, and your soul with peace.