Start Now! Increase Senior’s Well-being & Health This Holiday Season.
Start Now!
Increase Your Senior’s Well-being & Health This Holiday Season.
Did You Know…
Participation in holiday traditions and activities can be key to a more fulfilling life, and improves physical and mental health for older adults?
Holiday traditions improve physical & mental health for older adults
To most of us, the holidays are a time to celebrate and be happy…
Sadly, many seniors find it difficult to stay upbeat, positive and happy during this time.
Social connection and interactive activities reduce the risk of depression and anxiety for older adults.
“Older adults who interacted with people beyond their usual social circle of family and“ friends were more likely to have higher levels of physical activity, greater positive moods, and fewer negative feelings.”
– Harvard Medical School 2019 study shared by Journal of Gerontology
It’s a New Year and It
Check Out the Health Benefits of this Fun List of Holiday Activities and Ideas!
Health Benefits of Holiday Activities:
Seniors who engage in meaningful traditions and activities are more likely to feel a sense of belonging and purpose along with enhanced joy, improved mental health, and stronger community ties.
- Cognitive Stimulation:
Creative tasks like making leis, games, crafting, or baking can help maintain cognitive function and delay dementia onset. These activities stimulate brain health and can be beneficial for those with Alzheimer’s.
- Social Interaction:
Regular social interaction reduces the loneliness and isolation that cause depression and anxiety. Studies show more social interaction increases mood and physical activity levels.
- Emotional Well-Being:
Fun activities can give seniors a sense of accomplishment, joy, self-expression and belonging. These are crucial with life changes such as retirement, health issues or loss.
- Physical Health:
Activities that promote physical movement – like going for a walk, dancing, or getting out of the house – promote overall health, balance and strength.
Fun Holiday Activities for Seniors:
These activities can easily be a part of holiday celebrations! You can keep it low key so it matches their energy level and abilities. Remember to watch for signs of fatigue and take breaks as needed.
- Decorate Together:
Create warm memories and joy – whether they show you where to hang the ornaments or help with the decorating! Have some fun!
- Wrap Gifts, make Leis & Stuff Stockings:
Make leis or wrap some gifts – enjoy the special time together .
- Play Games:
Play simple games like cards, bingo or boardgames fosters joy and belonging.
- Holiday Music:
Sing or listen to favorite tunes to encourage interaction and uplifts spirits – especially wonderful for those with dementia and Alzheimer’s.
- Watch Classic Holiday Movies:
Watch movies like “It’s a Wonderful Life” or choose their favorite movie to start conversations about past traditions.
- Write Cards for Loved Ones:
Handwritten notes add a personal touch to holiday cards. Ask them to join in by writing, addressing, or sealing envelopes — it creates a sense of belonging.
- Bake Holiday Treats:
Bake cookies, cakes or pies – a great way to share traditions and create some sensory joy.
- Movie Night:
Pick one of their favorite holiday movies and snuggle up together to watch it!
- Build a Gingerbread House – Decorate Cookies:
Enjoy working on these together!
Get Them Out Of The House:
Get them moving and enhance their well-being!
- Walk around the town or neighborhood to admire the holiday decorations – go at less-popular times and avoid the crowds!
- Eat out at a favorite restaurant or order take-out and eat at home.
- Go to the theatre for a movie, a local play or musical.
What Are You Waiting For?
Let’s do this!
Help your loved ones join the holiday festivities to increase their mental health and overall well-being.
Create more social connections to help reduce feelings of isolation, enhance joy, and promote a sense of purpose during this holiday season.
Did You Know?
Our ‘Never-ending Training’ means that our Nurse Aides are highly skilled and always learning something new!
We continually offer Skills Training in our classroom
taught by experienced personnel and industry experts covering topics that range
from bedcare, dementia care, hospice care and safety techniques to proper lifting, transfers,
bathing, and so much more!
For More Information, Check Out the Following Blogs:
Negative Effects of Loneliness in Older Adults and How You Can Help
OR
Help Fight Senior Loneliness, One Letter at a Time.
We Call It Keeping Our Promises. 
You’ll Call it Exceptional Home Care.
Ohana Care Maui
Part-time, Full-time or Temporary Home Care
Call Today for Free, Customized In-Home Care Consultation
From respite care to bedbound care and everything in between — including Dementia & Alzheimer’s.
24/7, Island-wide Services / Hawaii Licensed Home Care Agency / Woman-owned & Run
808-344-1285
OhanaCareMaui.com
Related posts
