Plan For Safe Holiday Festivities During COVID-19

There’s no place like home for the holidays, but the holiday festivities will likely look different for seniors this year. Now is the time to plan for safe holiday meetings, so your loved one will feel included during the most wonderful time of the year.

Prepare For The Holidays

Try to quarantine for at least ten days before you visit a senior family member during the holidays. People 55 and older are at higher risk for contracting coronavirus, so limit your public exposure to work or school as much as possible.

Coordinate with other family members to take turns visiting elderly family members, so there aren’t big groups in the facility. Always wear a mask during your visit and maintain as much distance as possible.

Know The Signs Of Holiday Blues

The holidays are a time for joy, but seniors may feel like they’re missing out because they’re not at home with their families. Check-in regularly to keep tabs on their emotional state, especially if they’re exhibiting signs of depression.

Common symptoms include:

• Frequent sadness or tearfulness
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
• Sense of worthlessness
• Loss of interest in favorite activities

Schedule Remote Visits

You may have to rely on phone and video calls if the assisted living facility staff do not allow visitors. Set up a weekly schedule with your loved one to make calls and catch up.

Remote calls and videos are also an excellent way to include seniors in holiday parties. Make video calls during dinner prep or dinnertime to make them feel included in family traditions. Drop off their gifts and open them together over a video call, or schedule time to have coffee together after dinner.

Get Creative With These Holiday Ideas

Here are some alternative ideas to get seniors in the holiday spirit safely.

• Bring cookies to their living facility to decorate together and enjoy hot chocolate afterward
• Organize a holiday craft, like decorating ornaments or making garlands, so you can create memories while you make decorations.
• Decorate their rooms with lights, garlands, and window decals.
• Deliver a to-go plate of their favorite holiday foods on Thanksgiving and Christmas so that they can enjoy the feast.
• Mail holiday goodies throughout the season, so seniors can enjoy receiving gifts.

Embassy Healthcare is committed to ensuring your loved ones feel supported during this festive time of year. Contact us online or call 888-975-1379 to ask about our visitation schedule.