\u201cMay your days be merry and bright, and may all your Christmases be white.\u201d As the words of the immortal Bing Crosby classic echo through the halls and childhood memories are rekindled, we need to stop to take time to help make merry moments for our seniors. \u201cMay your days be merry and bright, and may all your Christmases be white.\u201d As the words of the immortal Bing Crosby classic echo through the halls and childhood memories are rekindled, we need to stop to take time to help make merry moments for our seniors.\u00a0(If you dream about the white stuff, you will have to talk to the Man upstairs about that!)<\/p>\n
The season can bring joy as family and friends visit in greater numbers, or it can be a time of loneliness and remembrance of loved ones who have passed. Here are some things to help make the holidays bright for elders who live in care settings:<\/p>\n
LOA (Leave of Absence): <\/b>If your loved one\u2019s medical condition allows it, you may take them out of the care setting for a LOA. Under Medicare guidelines, they just have to be back in the facility by midnight. Private insurances may allow for more time. A visit home or to a beautiful church concert can lift the spirits. However, keep in mind their overall stamina and condition when planning for the length of outing.<\/p>\n
Treats: <\/b>I must admit, I\u2019m as bad as my kids rushing to my stocking on Christmas morning to see if there are some chocolate Santas hiding in the bottom. Certain foods always bring back vivid memories and are a fun way to reminisce and continue family traditions. Keep in mind some elders may have dietary restrictions. Take care with harder foods such as nuts, based on the person\u2019s dentition. Always check with the nursing and care staff about foodstuffs in case a senior has dietary concerns, such as diabetes or is at risk for choking. This doesn\u2019t mean that they can\u2019t have any sweets. Usually there are creative ways to share holiday treats \u2026 just use a little bit of planning and common sense.<\/p>\n
Visits:<\/b> Nothing lights up a nursing home or care setting more than visits, especially from the younger generation, be it the high school choir or the local day care. It requires some extra effort, but the rewards will be well worth it with the laughs and smiles you will get back.<\/p>\n