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Visiting a loved one in senior living this holiday season? Forget the shopping list. Here’s what can make your holiday visit merry, meaningful and memorable.
1. Bring a Little Planning
Surprises are fun. But check with mom (or dad) first!
A loved one living in senior living generally has a busy, fun filled schedule. They may be out and about participating in an exercise or painting class, playing cards or Scrabble, or even attending an event off site. Check in to make sure you arrive at a time when he or she is free! Ask them if there is a community celebration you might enjoy together.
2. Bring the Holiday Sparkle
You don’t need eight strands of twinkling lights and an inflatable Santa to spread holiday cheer.
A favorite ornament, tabletop tree, wreath or battery-operated candle can brighten an apartment. Better yet, decorate their apartment together and enjoy the memories together as you hang each ornament.
Remember to keep decorations simple and safe and make a plan to put them away after the holidays.
3. Bring the Traditions
Remember the cookies everyone fought over? The movie you’ve watched 27 times? The song Dad insisted on singing every December? Bring them back!
Bake or decorate cookies together, listen to favorite holiday music or revisit a cherished family recipe. Sticking to familiar traditions can be comforting, especially when the holidays bring up memories of loved ones who have passed away or homes your loved one no longer lives in.
4. Bring the Whole Crew (Within Reason)
Grandkids, siblings and longtime family friends can turn an ordinary afternoon into a celebration. Invite younger visitors to share artwork, sing a holiday song or play a favorite game.
But remember, a room full of enthusiastic relatives can get exhausting. Smaller gatherings or staggered visits may make for more enjoyable one-on-one time.
5. Bring Your Holiday Spirit
Senior living communities often have their own festive calendars, packed with concerts, special meals, crafts and seasonal gatherings. Ask what’s happening and whether you can join the fun.
You can also stop by and ask your loved one give you a tour. This lets them introduce you to their friends, show you their favorite gathering spaces or experience a meal together.
Spending time at your loved one’s new home, engaging with their friends, and taking part in seasonal festivities is an excellent way to experience their everyday life.
6. Bring Something to Share
Another sweater? Maybe. Another decorative knickknack? Probably not. Consider gifts that create experiences instead.
Bring a photo album, favorite board game, puzzle or holiday craft project. Give a framed family photo, a large-print book or homemade gift.
For a delicious surprise, bring a favorite holiday treat.
7. Bring a Little Flexibility
You might arrive ready for three hours of festivities while your loved one is perfectly happy with 30 minutes of conversation and cocoa. Follow their energy and mood. Allow time for breaks and be willing to change plans.
For someone living with dementia, familiar routines, shorter visits and quieter surroundings may be especially helpful.
A wonderful visit doesn’t need a packed itinerary.
8. Bring Your Curiosity
Want to unwrap something priceless? Ask for a story.
Ask your loved one questions like: What was Christmas morning like when you were growing up? What is your favorite gift you ever received? Which holiday celebration turned into a hilarious disaster? You might hear something you’ve never heard before.
With permission, record the conversation or take photos. Those memories can become treasured family keepsakes.
9. Bring Holiday Cheer
Who says holiday visiting has to be a one-day event? Keep the connection going all season long with handwritten cards, family photos, video calls or homemade artwork from the grandkids.
You could even organize a holiday countdown, with different relatives calling or sending a message throughout the season. A little cheer can go a long way.
10. Bring Yourself. Fully.
Here’s the most important item on the list. Put your phone away. Forget about getting the perfect family photo. Stop worrying about whether everything is festive enough.
Pull up a chair. Share a laugh. Listen to a familiar story. Enjoy another cookie. And if the holidays bring a few bittersweet moments, make room for those, too.
Sometimes, being together is exactly what your loved one needs.
The Best Gifts Can’t Be Wrapped
Capri Communities is about making the most of life’s moments, big and small. During the holidays, that means festive celebrations, familiar traditions, new friendships and opportunities for families to make memories together.
So, bring the cookies. Bring the stories. Bring your holiday spirit. And above all, bring yourself.