Reduce Loneliness in Elders Around the Holidays
The most joyful time of the year is upon us! Unfortunately for many older adults who are isolated, they feel the opposite. For many older adults in Kane County and throughout the whole nation, this time of the year can become even more depressing and increase isolation. During the holiday season, there is a lot of pressure to enjoy yourself, be social and spend time with loved ones. For someone who lives in insolation, they do not have someone to spend the holidays with. Holidays may remind them of previous years when they spent time with loved ones or when they were not homebound. This can lead to severe depression.
As a community, we can help the older adults in our community combat isolation and depression during the holiday season by being present in their lives and acknowledging they are still part of our community.
Below are 5 ways to brighten an older adult’s life during the holiday season:
Whether you are one of our Home Delivered Meal Volunteers serving our seniors with food or you are listening to older neighbor who wanted a quick chat, listening is one of the best ways to show you care. Someone who is isolated does not have anyone to talk to and you may be the only person they have seen in days.
Older adults who are homebound can feel helpless and forgotten. Let them know they are still important and have value. Chat with them and listen to their accomplishments.
Give a small gift this year to a homebound older adult. It doesn’t have to be anything over-the-top or expensive. Many older adults living in isolation most likely will not receive gifts this year. Your small gift may be the only one they get and may mean the most to them.
Give a simple ring on the phone. All too often, we get caught up in our fast-paced lives and don’t stop to make a call. If you know any older adults who are alone, give them a call. Avoid sending them a text or direct message. Many older adults do not text or have smartphones. They also may see this form of communication as insincere.
This one can mean the most! Help trim a tree, put up lights and take decorations out of storage. Decorations can have meaning to someone of a time when their loved ones were present. This can brighten their day and help them enjoy the holiday season. Make sure to take the time to also help them take down the decorations once the holiday is over. This task can bring joy even after the holiday and let them know you still care even after the holiday season is over.
These are just some ways that you can brighten an older adult’s holiday season and let them know they are loved and cared for.
