Staying On Top of the Holiday Season

Staying On Top of the Holiday Season With Home Caregivers in Brooklyn, NY

Tips from our team to help seniors manage the stresses of the holiday season

The holiday season is certainly a joyous occasion, but for seniors in Brooklyn, NY it can also be looked at as a time of stress. Disruption in routine, gatherings centered around large meals, and the constant influx of guests can pose a threat to their mental and physical health if not approached properly. Speaking with loved ones to understand their limitations before making plans is a crucial step in helping them get the support they need from family members or home caregivers.

In addition to speaking with loved ones, seniors and their care partners should also keep these tips in mind:

• Sample, Don’t Gorge. Delicious meals options are abundant during the holidays, so it can be easy to overindulge. Seniors can still enjoy all the food they love to eat during the holidays if they remember to space out meals and portion appropriately.
• Stay Hydrated. Water is essential in general when it comes to health, but some people might not be drinking enough of it during the holidays. You can ensure your loved one always has a bottle of water nearby, as well as always have water available at the meal table.
• Drink in Moderation. Enjoy a cocktail on occasion, especially on a full stomach. Seniors can also enjoy alcohol-free drinks, such as hot chocolate.
• Exercise. Keeping to an existing routine can be difficult, but not impossible. Family members and home caregivers can offer to go on a walk around the block during good weather. Indoor shopping malls are also a great place to stretch your legs and even do some holiday window shopping.
• Shake up Traditions. If older relatives typically host a family gathering, they can pass the tradition on to younger family members. Limiting travel and keeping gatherings to one space can also benefit seniors, especially when they have volunteers to drive them.
• Rest. Traveling, cooking, cleaning, and enjoying company can be a lot for anyone. Remember there can always be time found to rest. Watch TV, read a book with the grandchildren, or even take a nice nap by the fire.
• Stay Involved. Seniors should still take part in what makes the holidays the heart for them and their loved ones. If someone enjoys cooking, they should be able to be involved.

With a little preparation, and some refinements to family traditions, seniors can not only continue to enjoy the holidays, but remain healthy throughout them. If your loved one could use the helping hand of one of our home caregivers, contact Right at Home serving Brooklyn, NY at (347) 554-8400.