With Halloween behind us, planning for multiple holiday festivities kicks into high gear. Whether you are making plans to travel or to welcome distant family and friends to your home, it is important to remember your elderly loved ones who will be involved in holiday celebrations as well.
When thinking about the guest list…
Stress and anxiety are common for older adults in large groups or different surroundings, even when they are amongst loved ones. To reduce their discomfort, plan the guest list thoughtfully. Limit the number of invitations, or ensure they have a couple of close family members they can sit with away from the crowd. You can also prepare a quiet spot for them to retreat to if they start to feel overwhelmed.
When preparing the house and making seating arrangements…
Take into consideration any mobility issues or physical limitations your senior guests may have. Be sure that you have addressed any trip hazards, made enough room for them to navigate the space with assistive devices (like a walker or wheelchair), and provided the right kind of seating for them to feel comfortable and included.
Remember that older adults may not hear as well as your other guests. Make sure your seating arrangements account for their individual needs so they can be part of conversations. Allow them to sit near those they most want to communicate with and reduce background noise to make it easier for them to hear and be heard.
When planning your holiday menu…
Don’t forget to think about your older guests’ dietary needs. Some seniors have to watch their sugar or salt intake, while others may have difficulty chewing or swallowing. Those with arthritis or other musculoskeletal conditions may have trouble cutting their food.
Offering a few heart-healthy, softer food options, or items cut into smaller bites, can make a big difference. You might also try swapping in a low-sodium side dish or a sugar-free dessert—small tweaks that still taste great. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way toward making everyone feel included (and well-fed!) at the table.
Also, be sure you have planned meal times to accommodate any medication schedules your seniors may need to follow. Ensuring they have food at the right time will keep them on track and allow them to participate more fully.
When hosting your holiday gathering…
Give your seniors grace and help to put them at ease. Older adults may be forgetful and can repeat themselves or ask questions you think they know the answers to. Let them share stories you have heard before. Answer their questions without judgment and help them to remember people or details they may have forgotten. Be patient and kind, and encourage others to do the same.
Whatever holiday celebrations you host this year, the team at Granny Nannies of Miami wants you and your families to have a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season. We’re always here for you, so call on us for all of your in-home care needs.