The holiday season can be a difficult time for seniors. Many are used to having family around during the holidays, but living alone can sometimes be a reminder that their kids have moved on and don't need them anymore. If you've wondered, "How do I care for my elderly parents during the holidays?" Our team at Sage Medical has some helpful tips for you.

Pay them a visit

It's always a good idea to stop by and see your parents during the holiday season to let them know that you're thinking about them. If they're not going to be spending the holidays with you, be sure to do a quick check to ensure that there aren't any obstacles in walkways that could pose a tripping hazard and that they have enough food. Grocery stores can be crowded during the holiday season, making it uncomfortable for seniors to navigate crowded aisles and long checkout lines. If they need some food, don't hesitate to offer to make a trip to the store for them. You can also offer to help with chores around the house to ensure that it's clean and festive if they'd like.

Have meaningful conversations

Sometimes visiting an elderly parent during the holiday season is enough to cheer up their spirits. Spend some time with your parent and have meaningful conversations. Take time to reminisce about past holidays, get them caught up on what's going on now with you and your family, and make an effort to make new memories. Have a conversation that encourages them to celebrate the season and look back on years past while looking forward to years to come.

Be inclusive

If your elderly parents don't live nearby, it can be easy to forget them in the smaller holiday celebrations you have during the season. Events like family Christmas parties are easy ways to get them involved, but you can also consider inviting them to school programs and special events. Your elderly parents will love being invited to these get-togethers even if they turn you down. It's often the thought that counts with inclusion more than actually participating in the events.

Plan ahead

Having elderly parents over for a holiday celebration sometimes takes preparation. If you have a parent who's in a wheelchair, walks with a cane, or simply doesn't get around as well as they used to, make necessary accommodations. Spread out your furniture a bit if you need to make wider walkways for a wheelchair and clean up toys or other objects that might be a tripping hazard. You might also need to move a specific chair into the gathering area to make for more comfortable sitting. Do your best to create a safe environment and comfortable environment so you can fully enjoy the company of your parents.

Monitor medications and alcohol

Drinking alcohol at holiday gatherings is a tradition that many have adopted into their families. If you have an elder parent who's on medications, be sure to keep an eye on their alcohol intake as some of their medications might require them to limit or eliminate alcohol.

Contact us for more

If you're still seeking answers to your question, "How can I best care for my elderly parents over the holidays," please don't hesitate to reach out to us at Sage Medical. We're here to provide you with expert advice regarding elder care. Give us a call at 480-418-6985 or send a message using our online contact form. Our staff of care providers can help you identify ways that you can care for your elderly parents during this time of year.