Seniors During the Holidays
December 20, 2022
The holiday season is a time for families to visit loved ones. It is important to reach out and visit the elders in our lives, or to bring them to enjoy the festivities with us.
Giving our time to our elders shows them that they are valued and treasured. It is easy for them to become lonely during this time of year more so than any other. Elders, like most of us, feel happier when surrounded by loved ones. It helps alleviate those feelings of isolation.
Some things to keep in mind while visiting with your elders:
- Show your affection. It’s easy to take it for granted that those we love know we love them. Don’t be afraid to go above and beyond to make sure they know.
- Look at old photos with them. Who doesn’t love a pleasant trip down memory lane? This may lift their spirits to reminisce about friends that have been lost along the way. It is also shown to help those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
- Keep it simple. If it will be a busy environment with a lot of activities, be sure to have a spot set aside for your loved on to have a break if they need it.
- Be mindful of rich foods and alcohol.
- Listen. Take the time to really listen to what they have to say, and not say.
- Assess their health both physical and mental. Be aware of anything that seems off and ask questions.
Sometimes while visiting your elderly loved ones, you may be surprised at how great they are doing. Other times we might be surprised to learn that they need some help
- 1. Spoiled food that doesn't get thrown away
- 2. Missing important appointments
- 3. Unexplained bruising
- 4. Trouble getting up from a seated position
- 5. Difficulty with walking, balance and mobility
- 6. Uncertainty and confusion when performing once-familiar tasks
- 7. Forgetfulness
- 8. Unpleasant body odour
- 9. Infrequent showering and bathing
- 10. Strong smell of urine in the house
- 11. Noticeable decline in grooming habits and personal care
- 12. Dirty house, extreme clutter and dirty laundry piling up
- 13. Stacks of unopened mail or an overflowing mailbox
- 14. Late payment notices, bounced checks and calls from bill collectors
- 15. Poor diet or weight loss
- 16. Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
- 17. Changes in mood or extreme mood swings
- 18. Forgetting to take medications – or taking more than the prescribed dosage
- 19. Diagnosis of dementia or early onset Alzheimer's
- 20. Unexplained dents and scratches on a car
If you think they need help, or are unsure, give us a call at 780-707-6509. We would be happy to talk to you about your loved one and discuss what would be helpful for them.
