What to keep in mind when home for the holidays

Category: Home Care | Senior Safety | Time | Published January 21, 2025

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What to keep in mind when home for the holidays

The holidays are a special time of year when many families come together to celebrate and create lasting memories. For those with elderly parents, the holidays can also be an important opportunity to check in on their well-being and provide extra support. Whether your parents live nearby or you’re visiting from afar, it’s essential to be mindful of their health, safety, and emotional well-being. Here’s a guide on what to look out for when you’re home for the holidays:

 

1. Physical Health and Mobility

As we age, physical changes can impact mobility and overall health. When spending time with elderly parents, be sure to:

  • Observe for signs of discomfort: Pay attention to any signs of pain, discomfort, or difficulty moving around. This could be due to arthritis, balance issues, or other underlying health conditions. Make sure they’re not avoiding necessary movement, which can contribute to a decline in strength.

  • Evaluate the home for hazards: Take a walk around the house to identify potential fall hazards like clutter, loose rugs, or poor lighting. Falls are one of the most common injuries for seniors, and the holidays may mean more decorations or changes in the environment that increase risk.

  • Monitor medication: Check if your parent is taking medications as prescribed and if there are any side effects like dizziness, confusion, or excessive drowsiness that could impact their safety. Offer to help organize their medications if needed.

 

2. Mental and Cognitive Health

The holidays can be both joyful and stressful, and seniors are often more vulnerable to emotional shifts. Watch out for:

  • Mood and behavior: The holidays can bring up feelings of loneliness or sadness, especially if your parent has lost a spouse or close friends. Look for signs of depression such as withdrawal, lack of interest in activities, or trouble sleeping. If you notice these signs, gently encourage them to talk about their feelings.

  • Memory changes: Subtle signs of cognitive decline may appear over time, and holidays may bring these issues into sharper focus. This can include memory loss, difficulty recalling familiar names or places, and confusion. If you notice significant changes in their cognitive abilities, it may be time for a professional evaluation.

  • Isolation: If your elderly parents live alone, they may experience increased isolation, particularly if you can’t visit often. Bring comfort by spending quality time together and helping them connect with other loved ones. You could also suggest other ways they can stay socially engaged, such as virtual gatherings or local community activities.

 

3. Dietary Needs and Nutrition

Seniors may face challenges when it comes to maintaining a balanced diet due to limited mobility, dental issues, or loss of appetite. Be mindful of the following:

  • Hydration and nutrition: Ensure your parent is drinking enough water and eating nutritious meals. Holidays are a time of indulgence, but make sure their meals are balanced, with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein.

  • Dietary restrictions: If your parent has dietary restrictions (like diabetes, low sodium, or gluten sensitivity), be sure to take these into consideration when preparing meals or planning festivities.

  • Difficulty with eating: Some seniors may experience difficulty chewing or swallowing due to dental issues or other health concerns. Offering soft or pureed foods, or even encouraging smaller, more frequent meals, can be helpful.

 

4. Communication and Listening

The holidays are an ideal time to reconnect with elderly parents. However, it’s also important to make sure they feel heard:

  • Give them the space to talk: Encourage open and honest conversations about their feelings, health, and any concerns they may have. Sometimes, just listening can provide comfort and help them feel supported.

  • Check in about their needs: Don’t hesitate to ask how they’re really doing. Whether it’s regarding personal care, home maintenance, or social connections, gently probe to see if there’s anything they need but might not have asked for.

 

5. Assistive Devices and Home Modifications

If your parents use assistive devices like walkers, hearing aids, or other mobility aids, now is a good time to ensure everything is in working order. Double-check that they have easy access to these devices, and make sure their home is adapted for their needs.

  • Walking aids: Make sure walkers, canes, or other mobility devices are in good condition and easy to reach.

  • Hearing aids: Ensure that hearing aids are working properly and that your parent has spare batteries.

  • Vision support: If your parent wears glasses or contacts, check that their prescription is up-to-date and that they are using proper lighting when reading or performing tasks.

 

6. Plans for Future Care

While the holidays may not always be the time to dive into serious discussions about the future, it’s still a good opportunity to gently touch base about any care planning needs:

  • Discussing future care options: If the topic comes up, have an open conversation about your parents’ wishes for the future, including whether they need assistance at home, or if they are open to exploring in-home care or a move to a retirement community.

  • Emergency preparedness: Ensure that your parent’s emergency contacts are up-to-date and that they have a list of doctors, medications, and any other vital information readily available in case of an emergency.

 

7. Celebrate Together

The holidays can feel especially isolating for older adults who may no longer be able to engage in the same activities they once enjoyed. Find ways to include them in holiday traditions, even if adaptations are necessary:

  • Family gatherings: If your parent is unable to attend large family events, consider hosting a smaller, more intimate gathering that includes them. Virtual gatherings can also help include them in the festivities if they live far away.

  • Holiday crafts and decorations: Involve them in decorating the house or preparing holiday cards, creating a sense of purpose and enjoyment.

  • Memory sharing: The holidays are a great time to share family memories. Spend time looking at old photos, telling stories, or reminiscing about past holiday experiences.

 

Final Thoughts

Spending time with your elderly parents during the holidays is a gift, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to provide support and reassurance. Pay attention to their physical, emotional, and social well-being, and take proactive steps to make sure they’re safe and comfortable. By being observant and involved, you can ensure that your parents feel loved, cared for, and connected during the holiday season, while also preparing for a healthier, happier future ahead.


StarPoint Home Care
513-766-3339
[email protected]
starpointhomecare.org