The holidays are a time when many people travel to be with family. And for seniors, this can often mean having a house full of relatives. While it can be nice to spend time with loved ones, a crowded home can also be stressful. Here are a few strategies to help seniors avoid stress when their home is crowded during the holidays:
Try to Maintain a Schedule and Routine
When there are a lot of people in the house, it can be easy for seniors to become overwhelmed. A predictable and consistent schedule and routine can help them stay organized and on track. With a schedule in place, seniors can plan specific times to rest, relax and spend time with family. They can also know when to take their medication, do physical activities, etc.
Have Some Ground Rules
Another strategy is to have some ground rules. For example, the senior may want to set a rule that there can only be two people in the kitchen at a time, or that everyone will go to be by a specific time. This will help to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Take Breaks
It's also important for seniors to take breaks. They may want to take a break from cooking or cleaning by going out for a walk or taking a nap to recharge. Taking some time off can help clear the mind and reduce stress levels.
Have an Adult Child Ready to Step In and Help
It can be helpful to have an adult child nearby who is ready and willing to help out. This way, if the senior starts to feel overwhelmed, they can ask for help with cooking, cleaning, or anything else that needs to be done. Sharing the work with an adult child will prevent your senior from feeling drained and overwhelmed. This will also give them enough time to mingle and have fun with the family.
Have Movies Planned as a Break from the Activity
Watching a movie together can be a great way to bond and create lasting memories. It can also be a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. You senior loved may appreciate having some down time to relax and enjoy the company of those they love.
Celebrate in a Safe and Familiar Environment
If the celebrations are going somewhere else, it's also important to ensure the environment is safe and familiar. It should not have trip hazards so your loved one can move around with ease. Hidden hazards like barriers in hallways or doors, door mats, throw rugs and cords can cause your senior loved one to fall. It's also essential to choose a familiar environment where they're comfortable and know their way around.
In-Home Caregivers Can Help Reduce Holiday Stress
Another way to reduce holiday stress is to have in-home caregivers who can help with:
- Companionship
- Medication and exercise management
- Moving in and out of the house
- Holiday shopping or decorating
- Meal preparation and cooking
The holidays can be a stressful time for seniors, but there are ways to manage the stress. At Senior Helpers Florence, our team of compassionate and experienced caregivers can help seniors host the holidays with ease. We understand how important it is for seniors to maintain their independence, so our caregivers are trained to provide quality in-home care that meets your senior loved one's needs. Seniors in Northern Kentucky, Edgewood, and Union can trust us to provide a personal, customized level of care. If you would like to learn more about how we can help your senior loved one avoid stress during the holidays, please contact us today.