Essential Dos and Don'ts
When Christmas time rolls around, it presents a special opportunity to create memorable moments with your elderly family members. Here are some valuable tips to enhance your time together during the festive season.
Dos for a Joyous Christmas with Elderly Family Members
Do Instil the Festive Spirit: There are numerous ways to kindle the Christmas spirit. Consider a leisurely drive to view local Christmas light displays or a visit to a seasonal fair or market, keeping in mind to avoid overly crowded times.
Do Uphold and Formulate Traditions: Share your family's cherished Christmas traditions with your elder relatives and involve them in activities like baking or reading holiday stories to the children. Also, why not blend your traditions with theirs to create new ones for everyone to cherish?
Do Organise Appropriate Activities: Choose activities that are suitable for your elder relative, especially if they struggle with cognitive issues such as dementia. Activities should be inclusive, considering everyone's interests and abilities.
Do Plan with Foresight: Anticipating the needs of your elderly family members is crucial. For instance, if they are not comfortable in crowded spaces, arrange visits to quieter places. If they face cognitive challenges, consider organising visits in smaller groups at suitable times.
Do Consider Mobility Concerns: The winter season often brings icy conditions that can be challenging for the elderly. Ensure that walkways are safe and consider bringing along materials to manage slippery surfaces.
Do Monitor Emotional Health: The festive period can sometimes evoke feelings of melancholy in elderly individuals. Be attentive to their emotional wellbeing and engage in conversations that lift their spirits.
Do Offer Practical Assistance: Checking if their heating is functioning properly or helping with their grocery shopping can be very helpful. Small gestures of assistance, while respecting their independence, can be greatly appreciated.
What Not to Do With Elderly Relatives at Christmas
Don’t Disrupt Their Routine: It's crucial to maintain the daily routines of elderly relatives, especially those with dementia. Plan your visit in a way that aligns with their regular schedule, or if they are staying with you, accommodate their routine as best you can.
Don’t Coerce into Activities: Understand that ageing can alter preferences and comfort levels. Always consult with your elderly relatives to ensure activities are enjoyable for them.
Don’t Rush Them: Patience is key, particularly if they move at a slower pace or face difficulties in certain tasks.
Don’t Ignore Their Feelings: The Christmas season can stir a mix of emotions. If your elderly relatives appear downcast, encourage them to share their feelings.
Don’t Patronise: Regardless of any confusion or difficulties they may have, remember that they are adults and should be treated with respect and dignity.
Spending time with elderly relatives during Christmas is a valuable opportunity to strengthen family bonds. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a pleasant and respectful experience for everyone involved.
