Senior caregivers are special people who by nature put others before themselves. During the holiday season, caregivers often see the need to “elevate their game” and create the ideal Hallmark holiday experience for their aging loved ones. All too often, however, the byproduct of well meaning intentions is stress. Here are 10 simple tips for senior caregivers to make the holidays meaningful, as well as manageable.
Set Realistic Expectations: Instead of trying to orchestrate the “perfect” holiday for the entire family, set flexible, achievable, stress-free holiday goals. Embrace spontaneity and inclusiveness, and dial down the pressure and expectations – especially as it relates to seniors.
Delegate. Delegate. Delegate: Accept help from family and friends or assign tasks to others. Sharing the responsibilities lightens the load and creates opportunities for everyone to contribute and add value.
Keep It Simple: There is sometimes a natural inclination to try to relive or recreate a lifetime of memories in a single holiday season. Focus on the present and what loved ones mean to each other now.
Prioritize Self-Care: During holiday times, it’s especially important for caregivers to schedule “me moments” for self-care, whether that’s exercise, a coffee break, or a quiet time alone.
Plan Virtual Gatherings: Technology today enables everyone to be “home for the holidays” in one way or another. For seniors who can’t be with family in person, set up video calls to connect with loved ones, watch movies together, or even share a holiday toast virtually. But make sure the senior is comfortable using the technology, or provide a “guide at their side” to avoid user error stress.
Create Personalized Gift Experiences: Give gifts that hold sentimental value, such as a scrapbook of family photos, a framed family picture, or a memory quilt. Personalized recordings of family members sharing favorite memories can be especially meaningful.
Decorate Together: Deck the halls, and everything else, with a senior at your side. Decorating their room or living space with lights, garlands, or wreaths can bring the holiday spirit right to them. And even if they are not physically able to help, seniors often have absolutely no problem telling you how to do it!
Make the Meal Manageable: Holiday meals are an important part of the festivities, but they are also a major stressor for many families. Don’t over prepare, meals are intended to bring people together, not weigh them down. More is rarely better when it comes to meals, plus overcooking creates unnecessary clean-up stress.
Celebrate the Reason for the Season: Seniors are often among the more spiritually connected people and they are in a place in their journey where religion may be very important to them. Recognize this and make sure they are able embrace and celebrate their spirituality in a meaningful way.
Presence over Presents: It’s true. All seniors want for the holidays is you. All year long you as a caregiver are there FOR them. This is the time to be WITH them.
