OMAHA, NEB. (PRWEB) December 14, 2020 - The holidays are a joyous time, and there is no reason that should change because of this year’s challenges. While traditionally this is a time for families to come together in person, we need to consider the health of older loved ones and find new ways to safely celebrate and keep traditions alive.
According to AARP, about 64% of family caregivers expect to change their typical holiday traditions, and 77% say the pandemic will affect their plans at least to some extent. While many seniors look forward to this time of year, cooking big meals, decorating their home and participating in traditions like watching holiday movies or caroling with family, now is the time to protect them, even if that means adjusting in-person traditions.
"As seniors age, their time spent with family, especially through holiday activities such as cooking dinner and decorating the tree, becomes even more precious,” said Lakelyn Hogan, Ph.D., gerontologist and caregiver advocate at Home Instead. “That is, especially as seniors may be feeling more isolated and lonely than ever due to COVID-19, it will be important to not simply cancel these events, but simultaneously identify new ways to safely celebrate with the older adults in our lives this year.”
While the pandemic will certainly impact how the holidays are observed this year, that does not mean families should abandon traditions. There are ways to celebrate, bring cheer and include older family members in a way that is memorable and enjoyable while keeping everyone safe. Hogan offers the following tips on ways to safely spend the holidays with seniors this year:
Just because older loved ones may be celebrating separately this holiday season does not mean they have to celebrate alone. By connecting in new festive and creative ways, you can ensure that the spirit of the season is not lost.
SOURCE Home Instead®
Home Instead® provides personalized care, support and education to enhance the lives of aging adults and their families.