When your loved one is in an assisted living community, celebrating the holidays may feel odd for both of you. After all, you’re used to spending holidays at home, surrounded by familiarity. While transitioning to an assisted living community can have its challenges, holidays and special occasions can be just as meaningful at Forestview Manor as they are at home.
At Forestview Manor, we pride ourselves on being an intimate, secure, and loving senior living community. We make sure our residents feel at home when they move here. That’s why our doors are open to family members visiting their loved ones, especially around the holidays. We know that you’re the secret to ensuring your loved one always feels safe, secure, and at home when they’re with us.
Below, we have compiled a few ways you can make sure you and your loved one can continue to celebrate holidays together.
Deck the Halls
Everyone loves to see their home full of festive cheer. For people with memory loss, holiday décor can help them mark the season and remind them of happy times. Bring some family decorations and decorate your loved one’s room with them, as this can be a fun activity for everyone involved. Just remember not to put out anything flammable, such as candles, and avoid clutter. According to the National Institute on Aging, people with memory loss will benefit most from being in spaces free of clutter, as they tend to wander and may also suffer from balance problems.
Be Sensitive to Their Needs
When it comes to celebrations, keep things relatively quiet and small. Seniors, especially those with dementia or other memory loss issues, can be sensitive to loud noises. If you’re playing music, if you have the TV on, or if everyone is talking, try to keep the volume low.
Make Space for Rest
All of us can probably think of a time when family celebrations became overwhelming. Make sure your loved one is rested before the event, and consider letting them know that you have a bedroom where they can rest if they need to.
Take Things as They Come
Remember that family celebrations will look a little different from how they used to look, but that’s okay. Family celebrations are always changing! Your loved one may not be able to recall names, faces, and past holidays, but that doesn’t mean you can’t focus on the special times you’re sharing now. Try to live in the moment and enjoy the gift that is the present.
Seek Support
Don’t forget that, in addition to making sure your loved one is comfortable and happy, you should tend to your own needs. Find support from family and friends during the holidays, and don’t put too much on your plate.
If you need any other ideas on how to celebrate holidays with your aging loved one, please contact us at Forestview Manor. In addition to offering the best assisted living in Meredith, NH, we have kind and caring staff members who specialize in memory care, and we would be happy to help you and your loved one celebrate in a meaningful way.