Turkey, traveling, friends and family…What comes to mind
when you think of Thanksgiving? For many
of us, the holidays are a great time to share the joy of life with friends and
family. However, the holidays can be a
stressful, confusing, and depressing time for senior citizens.
Reducing loneliness in older individuals around the holiday
season is essential for their happiness and well being. Thanksgiving is a great opportunity to create
a fun and interactive community for residents of nursing homes. Take a look at some important points to
remember this holiday season with your elders:
Activities and Crafts
– Thanksgiving for nursing homes can be a great opportunity to bring
traditional decorations and fun new activities.
Having senior citizens create holiday-inspired crafts and using those to
decorate their home can make a space feel festive and lively! Try crafting a fall wreath, leaf artwork, or
turkey centerpiece with your residents.
Maintain a Regular
Schedule – Thanksgiving can be a highly stressful time with the hustle and
bustle of holiday festivities. To help
the older individuals in your life feel a sense of stability, be sure to
maintain a regular schedule of sleep and medication. In addition, monitor the amount of alcohol
consumed because it can interfere with medication.
Encourage Family
Visits – The easiest way to make the holiday season special for the elderly
is by spending time with them. Talk
about old times, inquire about their life and thank them for all they have
done. Taking an hour out of your day
means the world to the older individuals in your life.
