Five ways to make holidays special

C hristmas is a special time of the year for so many people, but for many lonely older people, the festive season brings back memories of happier times in years gone by, reminding them of partners and other close relatives and friends who are no longer around and who they sorely miss.

If you know an older person who will be alone on Christmas Day, take note of these five ways to make their Christmas special: 1. Over a fifth of seniors say they want more social interaction, according to Statistics Canada. Arrange a family visit and open presents together. It’s more fun when the whole group has presents to open. 2. Help them think of, and purchase gifts for kids or grandkids, and wrap them together. 3. Remind them how important they are as a part of your life, your family members’ lives, and during these annual holiday celebrations. They may feel useless or burdensome if they cannot contribute to, or fully participate in, the festivities like they used to. 4. If a senior is in a long-term care facility, check with the activities director, and with local schools and extracurricular programs. See if they can arrange for children to visit with, or even perform for, the residents. 5. For family living far away, arrange video chats so they can have virtual visitors. Have a companion to be with your Mom or Dad. Sara says, “I’m a care worker and I am so happy to be working this Christmas, so those who don’t have family/loved ones will still have company from me!” Chronic loneliness is a horrible experience — day in and day out. It can also have a devastating impact on an older person’s mental and physical health.

Learn more about Care & Company and how they are devoted to helping the elderly.

Call: 250-382-2328, or visit #201 (Athlone Court) 2187 Oak Bay Ave. to sign up for a free assessment.