The holidays are rapidly approaching.
For most of us, the holidays are a wonderful time to share the joys of family life and friendship. But for many older adults the holidays can be highly stressful, confusing, or even depressing if their mental, physical and emotional needs are not taken into account. Older, frail family members can get lost in the shuffle and chaos of happy family gatherings. Additionally, there are particular influences that contribute to seniors being at risk for the “holiday blues.”
Many seniors face loneliness. Even if family members live in the same city, adult children often become so busy with their own lives and social obligations that they fail to recognize how much their parents or grandparents look forward to spending time with them during the holidays.
Another contributing factor is that many seniors have outlived cherished friends and family members and these losses feel even more painful during the holidays. For many, the memories of holidays past so outshine present day celebrations they feel unable to experience joy in the here-and-now.
The holidays bring special challenges. Be sensitive to the needs and emotions of your loved ones.
