The festive season is often portrayed as a time of joy, laughter, and togetherness. For many, it’s a chance to gather with family, indulge in delicious food, and celebrate traditions that bring warmth and comfort. But for older adults, especially those experiencing health or mobility challenges, the holidays can be a period of stress, sadness, and even physical discomfort. Understanding why this season can be difficult – and how families, friends, and care providers can help – can make a real difference in ensuring older adults feel valued, included, and comfortable during the holiday season.
Why the holidays can be hard for older adults
Several factors can make the festive season particularly challenging:
- Sensory overload: Bright lights, loud music, crowded gatherings, and the constant buzz of activity can be overwhelming, especially for those with cognitive conditions like dementia. What feels cheerful to some can cause anxiety or agitation in others.
- Mobility and accessibility challenges: Walking long distances, navigating stairs, or enduring long car rides can be exhausting or even unsafe for older adults. Even seemingly simple activities, like visiting family homes or busy shopping areas, can become stressful obstacles.
- Memories of loss: Holidays often bring back memories of loved ones who are no longer present. For older adults, this can trigger grief, nostalgia, or feelings of emptiness that are intensified during a season focused on family and togetherness.
- Feelings of isolation or neglect: Older adults may feel forgotten if family members are busy or live far away. Loneliness during this period is common and can impact mental and emotional well-being.
- Dietary Concerns: Rich foods, alcohol, and sugar-heavy treats are staples of holiday celebrations, but many older adults have dietary restrictions or digestive sensitivities. Overindulgence can lead to discomfort or exacerbate chronic health issues.
Recognising these challenges is the first step toward creating a festive season that is both joyful and manageable.
How families and individuals can make a difference
Families and friends play a crucial role in making the holiday season easier and more enjoyable for older adults. Here are some practical ways to help:
- Plan thoughtful visits: Consider timing, length, and environment. Shorter, quieter visits can be more enjoyable than large, noisy gatherings. Arriving early or late, when crowds are smaller, can make a visit more manageable.
- Create comfortable spaces: Ensure seating is easily accessible, lighting is soft, and noise levels are manageable. Simple adjustments can make a big difference for someone who might otherwise feel overwhelmed.
- Include older adults in preparations: Involving older adults in decorating, wrapping presents, or planning menus allows them to participate and feel valued. Even small contributions can foster a sense of purpose and connection.
- Celebrate memories thoughtfully: Encourage conversations about past holidays and lost loved ones, but balance this with creating new, joyful experiences. Sharing stories, looking through photo albums, or lighting a candle in memory of someone special can be comforting rituals.
- Respect dietary needs: Offer alternatives or bring foods that align with dietary restrictions. Small gestures like this allow older adults to enjoy festive meals safely.
- Offer flexibility and patience: Understand that older adults may tire more quickly or require breaks. Being patient, attentive, and adaptable helps reduce stress and promotes inclusion.
- Use technology to stay connected: If family members live far away, set up video calls or phone chats so older adults can see loved ones. Even brief connections can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
By being thoughtful and intentional, families can help older adults feel included, appreciated, and able to enjoy the festivities at their own pace.
How aged care homes can support residents
Aged care homes, like Finley Regional Care, also play a key role in making the holiday season more enjoyable for older adults. By providing a safe and accessible environment, care homes can:
- Offer a calm, sensory-friendly atmosphere, with decorations, music, and activities tailored to residents’ comfort levels.
- Facilitate family connections through video calls, phone chats, and socially distanced visits.
- Plan holiday activities that cater to different abilities and interests, ensuring everyone can participate meaningfully.
- Provide festive meals and treats that are safe, nutritious, and enjoyable for residents with dietary restrictions.
These measures help residents feel remembered, celebrated, and cared for during what can otherwise be a challenging time of year.
Creating a joyful, manageable festive season
While the holidays can be difficult for older adults, they can also be an opportunity to create meaningful connections, celebrate traditions thoughtfully, and offer support that enhances well-being. By recognising the challenges, adjusting expectations, and taking practical steps, families and care providers can help older adults experience the joy and warmth of the season without unnecessary stress or discomfort.
Ultimately, the key is empathy and attention. Understanding that older adults may experience the holidays differently allows us to adapt celebrations to their needs. With a little thought, care, and patience, the festive season can be a time of connection, comfort, and joy for residents and their families alike.
Try these conversation starters with older people this Christmas too!
