An article that was recently published in the New York Times revealed one way that the anxieties of the holiday season can have a negative impact on seniors. In this article, the writer revealed that she was anxious because her adult children were coming to visit for Hanukkah, and that they might decide that they might decide that she is unfit to care for herself and her husband. The alternative to caring for herself was a frightening one for her, so much so that she was reluctant to have her children visit.
This is an understandable fear. After all, we spend so much of our lives preparing for independence–and then finally living independently. Going back to a life of close supervision is not something that appeals to anyone–even if they vaguely recognize that they can’t continue to live on their own if things keep going the way that they are going.
The holidays are supposed to be a time where families get together. However, this in itself can be a stressor. Add in the fact that a lot of people feel guarded or under attack during this time of togetherness and it’s even tougher. People feel like they need to play defense the whole time.
Instead, focus on helping and loving one another. This is such an obvious statement, but it’s one that’s looked over far too frequently. Just focus on loving the people around you.
The holiday season is tough for most. Money, increased activity, and the presence or absence of family members can make it tough for each one of us in a unique way. This time of year can stir up hard emotions for anyone, so it’s not a surprise that the holidays will be difficult for those that have difficulty getting around to see those that they are close to.
The fact that seniors are in a vulnerable position makes it more important that they are given our attention. The holiday season can be tough for the elderly, but the time after can also be hard. Having a team of people that care for them and are all working together to help them can go a long way. And not just toward help with holiday anxiety, but for helping to improve mental and physical health year round.
We can help. In fact, this is what we do on a daily basis. When we work with an older individual, we don’t just provide help with the activities of daily living. We do this, but we do a lot more. Our caregivers are much more than helpers; they become friends of those that they help. Your loved one might feel alone, but when they work with us, they will soon find a close companion.
Give us a call today if you think that we might be able to help. Even if it’s a small step, it might be exactly what you need to lift some of that holiday stress and anxiety that you and your family are battling. The holidays are stressful, but that doesn’t mean that your family’s care situation needs to be, too.
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