The holiday season brings families together for heartwarming traditions, festive meals, and moments of connection. But for many seniors, this time of year can be emotionally complex—filled with joy, yes, but also with loneliness, overstimulation, or memories of loved ones who are no longer with them. Including older adults in your celebrations not only helps them feel valued and connected, but it also enriches the season for everyone.
At Skylark Senior Care, we believe every senior deserves to feel the joy and warmth of the holidays. Below are thoughtful ways to make your celebrations truly inclusive and meaningful.
1. Start with Understanding and Compassion
Every senior has unique needs, abilities, and preferences. A little awareness can make festive gatherings more enjoyable for them.
Keep things accessible.
Seniors may use walkers, canes, or wheelchairs, so make sure there’s enough open space for easy movement. Remove loose rugs and cords that could be tripping hazards. If stairs are unavoidable, consider hosting gatherings on the main floor or using portable ramps when appropriate.
Honor their routines.
Many older adults feel best during the earlier part of the day and may tire easily as evening approaches. Try planning important activities—like opening gifts, sharing a meal, or visiting relatives—during the times they feel most energetic and alert.
Offer quiet moments.
Large gatherings with loud conversations, excited children, or blaring holiday music can feel overwhelming. Setting aside a quiet room with comfortable seating gives seniors a place to retreat, rest, and return when they’re ready.
Mind dietary needs.
From diabetes-friendly desserts to low-sodium sides, small adjustments can make a big difference. Consider offering puréed or soft options for those with chewing or swallowing challenges. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the holiday meal safely and comfortably.
2. Invite Seniors to Be Part of the Holiday Magic
Participation fosters a sense of belonging, especially during a season rich with tradition.
Decorating the tree or table.
Let seniors choose ornaments, help place garland, or suggest color themes. Even small actions—like fluffing wreaths or organizing decorations—can make them feel part of the preparation.
Holiday crafting.
Crafts like card-making, simple ornaments, or cookie decorating are low-pressure but fun. These activities can also help with dexterity and cognitive stimulation.
Sharing stories.
The holidays are full of nostalgia, and seniors often carry decades of memories. Ask them questions like:
- “What was Christmas like when you were a child?”
- “What favorite tradition do you hope we continue?”
You may discover stories that become family treasures.
Listening to music together.
Familiar songs can spark joy and even memory recall for seniors with cognitive decline. Play holiday classics they might have grown up with—music is often one of the last memories to fade.
Intergenerational moments.
Pairing younger and older family members can be magical. Grandchildren can bake cookies with grandparents, ask about family traditions, or help them with crafts. These moments create bonds that last for years.
3. Use Technology to Stay Connected
Not every senior can attend celebrations in person, but technology can keep them close.
Schedule a video call.
Use FaceTime, Zoom, or another platform to include seniors in gift exchanges, prayer, holiday dinner toasts, or lighting the tree. Set up the call in advance to avoid stress on the day of the celebration.
Share digital photo albums.
Create a slideshow using family photos, old holiday moments, or pictures of grandchildren. Seniors enjoy reminiscing, and these visuals help them feel part of every generation.
Enjoy a virtual activity together.
You can watch a holiday movie at the same time, read a Christmas story together, or host a virtual cookie-decorating event. Even small virtual interactions provide emotional connection.
4. Celebrate Their Role and Legacy
Seniors often play a foundational role in shaping family traditions.
Continuing important traditions.
Ask seniors which family rituals mean the most to them. Maybe it’s a special meal, a certain prayer, or a particular ornament. Including their preferences ensures the holiday remains meaningful to them.
Displaying heirlooms and photographs.
Set up a small “memory table” with framed photos, cherished ornaments, or personal items from past generations. This lets seniors relive special memories and sparks great conversation among the family.
Assign meaningful roles.
Maybe they light the first candle, bless the meal, read a holiday poem, or hand out gifts. Roles like these help seniors feel respected and honored.
5. Be Mindful of Fatigue and Overstimulation
The hectic nature of the holidays can be exhausting for seniors.
Plan shorter visits.
Instead of a long, all-day celebration, consider spacing activities out. A shorter but meaningful visit may be more enjoyable.
Limit noisy environments.
Loud music, overlapping conversations, or excited pets can overwhelm seniors—especially those with hearing aids or sensory sensitivities. Adjust the noise level or move the gathering to a calmer environment.
One-on-one connection.
Seniors may feel lost in a crowd. Spending even a few minutes in personal conversation can make them feel seen and valued.
Be flexible.
If you notice signs of discomfort—confusion, irritability, or fatigue—offer a break or end the visit early. The goal is comfort and joy, not endurance.
6. Spread Holiday Joy Together
Giving can be just as meaningful as receiving.
Creating care packages.
Assemble small gift bags for neighbors, first responders, or other seniors in the community. Simple items—socks, snacks, cards—go a long way.
Writing holiday cards.
Let seniors choose the cards, write messages, or decorate envelopes. This boosts creativity and emotional expression.
Handmade gifts.
Baking bread, knitting simple scarves, or crafting homemade ornaments gives seniors a sense of purpose and contribution.
Sharing gratitude.
Encourage seniors to reflect on what they’re thankful for and share it with the family. Gratitude rituals are powerful for emotional well-being.
7. How Skylark Senior Care Can Help Make the Holidays Easier
At Skylark Senior Care, we understand the complexities families face during the holiday season. Between social events, travel, and daily responsibilities, it can be difficult to provide all the support your aging loved one needs.
Our team can help with:
Companionship and Engagement
We keep seniors company during holiday activities, help guide conversations, and ensure they feel included and comfortable.
Memory Care Support
For seniors living with dementia, the holidays can be confusing. Our trained caregivers gently redirect, calm, and support them throughout the festivities.
Respite for Family Caregivers
Enjoy your gatherings with peace of mind knowing your loved one is safe, happy, and supported.
Let Skylark lighten your load so you can spend more quality time with the people you love.
Conclusion
By planning with intention and empathy, you can make the holiday season a time of joy, comfort, and connection for the seniors in your life. These thoughtful gestures not only help them feel included—they make your family’s celebration richer and more meaningful.
If your family could use extra support this holiday season, Skylark Senior Care is here to help you create safe, joyful, and memorable moments for your loved ones.
Reach out today to learn more about our services.
