How Family Caregivers Can Improve the Holiday Season

Caring for an elderly parent or family member can be a challenge, but during the holiday season it can become even more so. The holidays mean additional responsibilities and expectations, but more importantly, it means opportunity. As a caregiver, you have a unique opportunity to bring a little extra joy into the life of another person, and there is no better time to do so than during the holiday season. Dayton home care providers recommend the following tips to improve your holiday with your loved one.

Decorate for the Season

Take some time to bring the feeling of the holidays into your loved one’s home. Play some Christmas music in the background and set out some winter decor or hang a beautiful wreath. Even a small, lighted tabletop tree can add a bright touch.

Enjoy Some Fun Activities

If your loved one is able, take him or her to a local theater to see a live Christmas performance. Go to a community tree lighting or take a drive after dark to view the decorated houses around town. If your senior loved one is housebound, talk to local churches or neighbors to see if any carolers can stop by for a short performance. Be sure to invite seniors to family holiday events so they know they matter, too.

Be Proactive About Holiday Depression

The holidays can be a difficult time of year for people who have lost loved ones or who are unable to celebrate as they once did. Look for ways to encourage your senior loved one to share happy holiday memories and avoid winter depression. Find out what his or her favorite traditions were and incorporate these customs into your celebration. Reminisce with your senior loved one by looking through photo albums together or describing how he or she celebrated when you loved one was a kid.

Give and Request Practical Gifts

When friends or family members ask about what to give your senior loved one this year, recommend practical items that can help out during the year. Recommend gift cards to grocery stores or personal care items they may need. Even hiring a Dayton live-in home care provider can be a significant help and a thoughtful gift for your senior loved one.
For a truly remarkable improvement to your senior loved one’s Christmas experience, reach out to Home Care Assistance. We are a leading provider of Alzheimer’s, stroke, Parkinson’s, and Dayton in-home dementia care, and our trusted caregivers are dedicated to delivering specialized care for seniors in the comfort and security of home. Help your loved one truly enjoy this holiday season by calling a friendly Care Manager today at [hca_phone] and schedule a free consultation.