Oct 23, 2024 | News
The festive season is a special time for families to come together, celebrate and create lasting memories. However, when a senior family member requires extra care, planning for Christmas or other holidays can feel a bit overwhelming. With thoughtful preparation, families can ensure that their elderly family members have a joyful and stress-free holiday season.
Let’s explore how families and caregivers can work together to make the holidays a time of celebration and comfort and how live-in care can help with this.
1, Start planning early
When it comes to the holidays, planning ahead is key – especially when you’re juggling family gatherings, travel arrangements and your loved one’s care needs. Consider in plenty of time whether adding additional care into the routine would be beneficial – family caregivers may well be more stretched over the festive period, meaning that a professional carer could take the pressure off family while maintaining your loved one’s wellbeing.
Do bear in mind that introducing changes to the care set-up, and potentially new people into your senior family member’s life, can be stressful. It should be done well in advance of the busy festive season, so routines can be established and trust built up.
2, Involve existing caregivers in the planning
If your senior family member already has a live-in caregiver, involve them in the planning process as early as possible. They can provide professional insights into the person’s daily routines, health needs and any limitations that should be considered when making plans.
Discuss important details like meal preferences, dietary restrictions and mobility needs in relation to the plans. For example, if a large family gathering is planned, a caregiver can help with ensuring that seating arrangements, accessibility and meal options are suitable for your loved one.
3, Keep celebrations simple and stress-free
While it’s tempting to go all out during the festivities, it’s important to consider the comfort and wellbeing of your senior loved one. Large, busy gatherings can sometimes be overwhelming for older adults, particularly those with mobility issues or cognitive conditions like dementia.
Ask an existing caregiver for their thoughts on the plans you are considering. And remember that smaller, more intimate celebrations can still be special, allowing for quality time with family without causing undue stress.
4. Involve your loved one in festivities
Involving seniors in festive traditions can help them feel connected and involved during the season. Whether it’s decorating a Christmas tree, preparing celebratory food or wrapping gifts, find activities that your loved one can take part in. These traditions can bring joy, spark memories and create a sense of inclusion.
Having a carer on hand during this time can be handy, as they can assist by adapting these activities to fit a person’s abilities. For example, if your loved one has limited mobility, a carer can help with simple tasks like placing decorations or choosing which biscuits to bake. This way, your family member can feel part of the holiday spirit, while receiving all the support they need.
5, Plan for safe and comfortable travel
If travel is part of your family’s plan for the festive season, it’s important to ensure that senior members can travel safely and comfortably. A caregiver can be a valuable resource in helping to manage travel logistics. This might be through preparing medications, planning rest breaks or other things to make the travel experience as smooth as possible.
Consider travel arrangements such as wheelchair access and accommodation that meets your loved one’s needs. If long-distance travel isn’t feasible for them, consider virtual celebrations or smaller, local gatherings.
If you’re looking for live-in care agencies in Wiltshire ahead of this holiday season, contact Oxley Care today.
Call 01980 846690