Make This Holiday Season More Enjoyable
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- Published on Wednesday, 04 November 2015 10:31
The holidays can be times of great joy for many people. It can also be a time of stress, turmoil and even sorrow for those who are aging and the ones caring for them. Planning ahead and taking a few extra steps this holiday season will make the holidays less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone in the family. Here are a few steps you can take to make the holidays happier for all.
Determine Which Traditions are Most Important
Some traditions become more challenging than cheerful. And others, no matter how challenging, are essential in the heart and mind of aging adults to the feelings of holiday joy. Decorations. Music. The buying of gifts. These are all important holiday traditions to some people – as are the holiday meals.
But, is it the preparation of the meals that is more important, or is the joy derived from sharing holiday meals with friends and family? If the latter is the case, consider having holiday meals catered rather than preparing them. It removes some of the stress from the occasion while freeing up time for fellowship and celebration. Look for other ways to take the work out of the holidays while keeping the joy intact.
Involve the Family
The more the merrier is a phrase to live by throughout the holiday season. Put in a call for all hands on deck. Ask for help. Caring for aging family members can be stressful in its own right. Trying to decorate, bring in cheer, and create a holiday atmosphere when you’re both feeling a little isolated can be downright difficult.
The simple solution? Bring in the family to help with decorations, do a little baking, and sing a few songs of the season. It helps to lift everyone’s spirits and makes the season more festive.
On celebration days, keep the family involved by assigning tasks to everyone there. From the oldest to the youngest, there are small jobs everyone can do, such as:
- Folding napkins
- Setting tables
- Making table decorations
- Passing out gifts
- Preparing food
- Cleanup
- Recycling
Everyone who has a job, no matter how large or small, can feel like he or she is making an important contribution – and take some of the stress away from the person who would otherwise be responsible.
Holidays can be stressful for those caring for aging parents and family members, too. Give yourself the gift of a little time to yourself for shopping or just relaxing this holiday season. Call Fall River Jewish Home at 508-679-6172 today to inquire about respite care options and adult day care so you can take a break, too.
