Holidays can be stressful for seniors
The holidays are a time of excitement and cheer, but seniors may find the holidays overwhelming. Fond memories of holidays past may spur seniors to try and recapture the same level of activity they maintained when they were younger, which can be physically and emotionally draining. Seniors also may be thinking about departed spouses and friends, leaving them sad and depressed. Family members need to have a plan in place to address these issues.
“Seniors living alone often feel left out of the holiday season, so it is important that they are included in family holiday activities. Family visits mean a great deal, so does a visit to the family home. But the home needs to be fall-proofed; hiding electrical cords, tacking down area rugs, and moving obstacles that may trip a senior and cause them to fall,” says Mardy Chizek, an RN and Eldercare Navigator and president of Westmont's Charism Elder Care Services, which offers comprehensive eldercare services not available from another single source and is built on results that address medical and daily living issues with dignity and safety. “And make sure that seniors have the proper medication with them, and that meals conform to any dietary restrictions.”
Chizek also warns that seniors on fixed incomes may try to demonstrate their love by over-spending on gifts. Family members need to set guidelines for spending so seniors don't feel they have scrimped on gifts. Just as some families find themselves in credit card debt after the holidays; it may be especially hard for seniors to pay back gift costs on a fixed income, which can lead to depression and stress.
“The holidays should be inclusive, and that means creating a joyful experience for seniors. If you are unable to visit an elderly family member during the holidays, at least arrange for a homecare aide to provide companionship. There is nothing more important than being with someone during the holidays,” adds Chizek.
For more information on holiday elder planning care or home care, visit Mardy Chizek and Charism Elder Care Services on-line at www.charism.net.