Moving a parent to assisted living or any senior care facility is an emotional experience, even if they are receptive. When your loved one has spent years living in their own home, the adjustment to an assisted living center can be daunting. It's typically one of the most significant changes a senior will make in their later years. There is no way to eliminate the doubts and anxiety that accompany this relocation. So their parting is your opportunity to show them how much you value them. Here are some fantastic ideas for making their last Christmas at home memorable!
Decorate the Christmas Tree
Christmas customs are the heart of the season and the catalyst for yearly gatherings of people. Since they were instrumental in passing them down and giving them significance to newer generations, senior relatives are better acquainted with these customs than most. The twinkling lights and fragrance of a newly cut Christmas tree usher in the cheerful holiday season.
Favorite decorations are likely to have been hung by elderly parents on previous Christmases. Take these prized ornaments from storage and use them to adorn the tree. Initiate talks about each particular ornament as adults, elders, and grandkids help to decorate.
Prepare a Special Holiday Dinner
Nothing says Christmas like turkey, mashed potatoes, cookies, Yorkshire pudding, Shrimp Scampi, and a variety of other delicacies. For many individuals, the Christmas supper is both precious and a lot of effort. Allow senior parents to be a special part of the festive feasts by preparing meals and baking together, especially if it is their last Christmas at home. Request their assistance in preparing the large dinner, or ask them to share their family's traditional recipes.
Tour the Neighborhood to See the Decorations
Every neighborhood has a few homes with extravagant lighting and décor. Checking out their neighbors' decorations this Christmas season is a timeless delight, particularly for seniors. Get the whole family—children, parents, and grandparents—into the car for a fun outing exploring the neighborhood. A stroll with the pet and a check of the décor will be a delightful pastime if they are up to it. It will be especially beneficial after all the holiday food.
Take a Holiday Picture
Taking a Christmas snapshot with your senior loved one may be a memorable experience for everyone! This is an opportunity to not only recall the amazing, memorable occasions you shared but also to preserve some joyful memories for future generations to cherish.
Set Up a Secret Santa Gift Exchange
A secret Santa gift exchange on Christmas day is one method to bring your family closer together. This is a nice Christmas activity for seniors since it gets them involved in the holiday. Organizing a hidden Santa gift exchange may keep your family members engaged on Christmas Day. Get them to make a wish list, then show them you care by granting some of their wishes on Christmas. Alternatively, you could act as their secret Santa and hide gifts for them around the house.
Special Christmas gatherings let older loved ones feel recognized and appreciated and build memories, especially if it's their last Christmas in their current home. Long-term care placement guarantees that your loved one receives all essential care, is socially stimulated, and is in a safe setting.
With our companion care services in Newburgh, Mount Vernon, Evansville, and Boonville, Senior Helpers Evansville can help with various duties, including grocery shopping and regular housework. We also provide care for the elderly suffering from age-related diseases such as dementia and Parkinson's. Contact Senior Helpers Evansville today to discover how we can assist you.