It’s the most wonderful time of the year…or is it? I guess it depends on whether or not the Holiday Season brings on feelings of depression. According to Depression-Guide.com, “Seniors can have an especially hard time with the holidays. Lots of reasons can contribute to this. The loss of an important person in the last year, or the anniversary of a loss or traumatic event can make memories come back that can dampen spirits. Nearly two-thirds of survey respondents said they have suffered from depression during the holidays, often to such an extent that they do not take part in the season’s activities.” We have compiled some ways to help your senior friends and loved ones combat depression this year.
Many seniors feel disconnected from family and friends due to health-issues that limit their mobility or they are separated from people geographically. You can help seniors by finding music that is pleasing to them—perhaps holiday carols or maybe a different genre that works for them. Call, write, Skype, facebook or e-mail them – you know which method will work best for them. If you live far from the senior, mail them photos of you and your family to keep them informed about news and events that happened this year, or send a newsletter telling them about upcoming events that you are looking forward to.
Try to find a special gift that will mean something to them. “I remember my grandmother used to tell me a story about how her and her best friend Shirley would always meet at Marshall Fields downtown to have breakfast at the Walnut Room, so one year I sent her an ornament of the famous Marshall Fields clock to remind her of how her story of friendship had stayed with me even as an adult, “said Maribeth Hearn, Executive Marketing Director at Shay Health Care Services. Terry Lallky, R.N.,BSN, and Administrator at Shay Health Care Services recommended “Contact the local church or synagogue and see if they have any peer groups for those that are mobile or for those that are not ask if the organization can mail the bulletin or arrange for visits from volunteers.” Another suggestion is to load a photo frame with photos and update it regularly for the senior. Keeping in contact is essential, Lallky added “Set up a regular telephone call with your elderly relatives like Tuesday evenings or Saturday mornings and be consistent.”
If you are the primary caregiver for a senior and you need a break, please contact Shay Health Care Services at 708-535-4300 we are available for packages from 2 hours of service to 24 hour live in care. Our phones are answered 24 hours per day including weekends and holidays. Take care of yourself and your loved ones. Happy Holiday’s from Shay Health Care Services.
Disclaimer: The article provided is to help provide resources not medical advice.