by Sherrin Griffin VP, Operations, Sidney SeniorCare –
Well, here we are again at that jolly time of year when we all look forward to a little more beauty in the world; a little more joy, a little more kindness and a little more togetherness with family and friends. I don’t think many of us anticipated yet another holiday season underscored with the spectre of Covid, but ’tis the season to pick ourselves up, brush off the negativity and immerse ourselves in the splendour of the holidays, whatever cultural celebration you observe.
It is also a time of year when many seniors struggle with loneliness and depression, remembering happier days when they still had their spouse or other family members that have since passed, and when life seemed simpler, less frantic and more family oriented. And it doesn’t help when those around them have so much more to do and seemingly less time to check in and visit with them.
I know that for me the holidays seem to show up like a sudden storm, and I am left unprepared and run off my feet, trying to meet all the obligatory expectations the season demands of us. While frantically wrapping presents on Christmas Eve and soothing my nerves with a much-too-strong rum and eggnog, I vow to be better organized the next year.
But, unlike decorating a magazine-worthy tree and wrapping presents with perfect corners, time with seniors cannot be “put off until next year.” And, more importantly, why would anyone want to do that? Including seniors during the holidays brings an added level of richness and depth that simply cannot be found anywhere else. Seniors are an invaluable resource of holidays past, brimming over with decades-old traditions and memories that are a treasure trove for children and other family members and friends. Classic yuletide songs, goodies, cherished movies and special crafts live on in our seniors with the wonderful potential to be passed down through many generations, keeping our history alive and flourishing.
I believe that a healthy change in perspective is in order so that seniors can be cherished and revered for the immense value they bring to the holiday season. All it takes on our part is a bit of holiday pre-planning which will go a long way towards ensuring the mental health and well-being of your favourite seniors, while ensuring that you don’t dissolve into a messy puddle of exhaustion and nerves on the floor.
Ask seniors for help! Don’t forget: this is not their first holiday rodeo. Even seniors with compromised mobility can help out with seasonal tasks such as online shopping, writing greeting cards, making festive decorations, cooking or baking (as mobility allows). This engagement not only makes seniors feel useful and that they are adding value to the season; it also gives you some much-needed respite from feeling that you have to do everything on your own.
Set up a plan with other family and friends to spend time with the seniors in your life, while you take care of some of the holiday tasks that only you can do. The senior benefits from engaging with different generations and different holiday activities, while the other family and friends benefit from the senior’s experience and unique perspective.
This past weekend, while I ruminated over Covid and the demands of Christmas, yet again, I made the time for a quick visit to see Mum and Dad. My mother greeted me at the door with a glass of spiced eggnog and a sparkle in her eye. Behind her lay the most beautiful oasis of fairy lights, festive décor and holiday cheer, reminding me that seniors have definitely not forgotten how to deliver the magic.
