One of the joys of the fall and winter holiday season is the opportunity to spend extra time with family and loved ones. However, long-term care residents may find the holidays a lonely time of year if their close friends or family members have died or are unable to visit them. In such cases, it is up to the network of caregivers in nursing facilities to make an extra effort to make the holidays a special time for those residents. It’s important that staff work to create a positive environment that reinforces enjoyment of as many moments possible for residents.
The surrounding community can also be a great comfort to seniors experiencing the blues. Check with your local schools or service organizations to find out what kind of programs they have to help older community members. For example, the National Exchange Club has an Adopt-A-Grandparent program and volunteers make regular visits to nursing facilities and donate needed items such as magazines, books, and craft supplies. Facilities can also partner with schools to start a holiday project for residents where students collect or make and decorate cards.
The holidays highlight the fact that there are numerous opportunities throughout the year to make the quality of life better for residents and help them remain a part of society. These gestures or activities don’t have to be big, but can be anything that helps make them feel a sense of belonging and provides them with the ability to share in their community.
– Teri R. Sumbry, Marketing & Events Coordinator
