The holidays are an excellent time for older adults and their senior companions to take a break from their daily routine and transition into a more festive spirit. However, with all of the fun and excitement, there can also be a feeling of hectic overwhelm. In this article, we'll be sharing five tips for providing the best, most mutually fulfilling companion care during the holiday season.
At Gallagher Home Care, we understand the importance of spending quality time with your aging loved ones. We also understand the stress and incessant hard work that comes along with being a caregiver. That's why we've put together these tips to help you and your senior loved ones enjoy the holiday season to its fullest.
1: Use The Time To Form Connections
Many seniors can feel particularly saddened during the holidays. That's why those providing senior companionship should try to be especially attentive around this time. Instead of allowing the holiday blues to get to the household, instead concentrate on all of the lovely aspects about the season.
Lots of uninterrupted time indoors can lead to long evenings full of talking, reminiscing, and enjoying the sense of peace that comes with the holidays. Have a conversation with the senior you care for and other family members regarding any exciting traditions that can be shared. If there aren't any, use the opportunity to make new ones.
2: Create Memories Out of Chores
The holiday season is also the perfect time to get some much needed help around the house. Instead of viewing household tasks as a burdensome chore, try to make them into fun, bonding experiences with your senior loved one. Put extra effort into usually tedious activities like when you prepare meals or conduct light housekeeping. Turn on that holiday music and sing around the house!
For example, you can bake cookies together or decorate the house for the holidays while listening to festive music and reminiscing about past holidays. Take a personalized approach to holiday decorating- try to strike up a conversation about where they got their old holiday statues and knick knacks from.
3: Take Advantage of Activities in The Community
The holiday season means access to rewarding, engaging activities for your aging loved one and yourself to attend. Activities can range from festive concerts, craft fairs, light show displays and themed parties. Use this time to help your senior loved one feel connected with others in their community.
Take some time to research activities happening in the local area that you think your senior loved one would enjoy. It's important to note any mobility or health restrictions when choosing activities, but don't be afraid to try new things together!
4: Bring Loved Ones Together
The holidays are a time for family and friends to come together. But, when family members live far apart from one another, this can become difficult. If your senior loved one has trouble traveling, consider hosting a gathering at their home or bringing the festivities to them. This can be a great way to include them in the holiday celebrations while also ensuring their comfort and safety.
There are countless mental and emotional health benefits to spending quality time with the ones you love. Especially those who you aren't able to see on a regular basis. By arranging the festivities within their own home, things can be made far simpler.
5: Prioritize Self Care
In the midst of all of the fast-moving festivities, personal care can sometimes get inadvertently left by the wayside. Our last tip, but certainly not our least, is that you should prioritize taking care of yourself during this season. Companion care requires a lot of dedication, and this season in particular contains many moving parts.
When you find you need to take the time to tend to your own life, and your own health, it's okay to ask someone to assist you with senior care. Unless you're in your top condition, you won't be able to provide the quality of care you know your loved one needs!
It's Okay To Need Some Extra Holiday Help
If you do feel as though you might benefit from companion care services this holiday season, you have plenty of options. There are plenty of senior care experts, like Gallagher Home Care, locally accessible. Whether its meal preparation, light housekeeping, or simply quality time, the range of services offered is as helpful as it is diverse.
Interested in home care services, but still have some lingering questions? Don't hesitate to contact us today! Schedule your free care consultation today, or call us at (412) 279-2257 to learn more.
