Frail Older Parents: How to Make the Holidays Joyful!

As family members age they may no longer have the energy to buy gifts or host holiday celebrations. This can make the holidays a sad time for them. With a few helpful hints adult children can accommodate them so they can experience a joyful holiday.

1. If you are having a frail family member to your house for a holiday meal or party, you might want to limit the time they are there. Have someone pick them up just before the meal is going to be served and return them just after desert, as this may be less stressful and tiring for them. But don’t assume all older adults have limited energy, make sure to ask before you hurry them home.
2. Help your family member enjoy the Holiday Season that they miss out on as they age. Older adults with limited mobility may not get out to go shopping or attend evening events like a tree lighting anymore. Plan a trip to the mall when it’s not too crowded, just to look at the store decorations, watch the joy as children visit with Santa, and share of cup of hot cocoa while taking in the holiday spirit of others.
3. If your family member would like to buy gifts for others the mall can be stressful and tiring. Instead bring a favorite catalog or two to them when you visit. Help them choose gifts that you can order for them online and have sent directly to the recipients. Most online stores will even gift wrap the items for a small fee. Another simple idea is gift cards. They are easy to get and easy to give. Start the shopping process early so there is no rush and it can be a relaxed enjoyable activity.
4. Spend some time just reminiscing with your parent. Bring out pictures from holiday celebrations when you were young and thank them for all those special memories. Play some holiday music, light a pine scented candle and enjoy a favorite holiday cookie so the memories are visual, auditory and sensory.

Our expert team at Eldercare Services is available for consultation, if you have specific questions about a loved one’s limitations, or you feel that they could benefit from some additional services or care. Click here to contact us today, we’d love to hear from you. Peaceful, joyful holidays to all!
By Linda Fodrini-Johnson, MA, MFT, CMC