For caregivers and families newly caring for their elderly members, the holidays can be as much a stressful and trying time as it is a joyful one. The beauty and colors of the season stir the mind to family values and togetherness, which often reminds us of lost loved ones and, after Hurricane Sandy, many lost treasures.
Lets make an effort this year to enrich our families and communities with the gifts of kindness, inclusivity, and Love.
I have looked into ways families can adapt and support the needs of their elderly loved ones, and gained some insights I’d like to share...
COPING WITH LOSS
With a death in the family, the holiday season can magnify that feeling of loss or isolation. This is an opportunity for family members to connect. Sit down with family and decide what each family member would like to do this season. Acknowledge the loss of the loved one, honor them together or visit a memorial site.
“Engage in spiritual activities that are comfortable for you. All wounds take time to heal, realize you will feel sad at times. Don’t be afraid to cry or smile. Enjoy the gifts of the season found in special memories.1”
COMFORT IN CHANGING ROLES
The passage of time and process of aging can leave our elders feeling awkward at holiday time. Elders who were once the lively and capable hosts of family events turn into the guests at family events. Other elders can be left alone during the holidays, due to deaths or family breakups. Taking the time to include our elderly family members and even family friends can be extremely rewarding for all members of the family. Here are a few tips to keep in mind for the best response at holiday parties.
1. Clean appropriately for all ages and clear pathways of small objects, making the home accessible to your elders.
2. Cook special dishes low in sugar and salt especially for your elders.
3. Prepare the home with special comforts like photos of elders from over the years and place them around the space.
4. Be ready to greet everyone cheerfully and welcome them whatever their role in your family.
5. Document your good time with holiday crafts shared between children and elders and treasure the memory of the bonds you have created and strengthened!
* Note * The holidays can be a wake up call that a family member needs additional support. Be aware of the signs of dementia and Alzheimer’s by visiting the Alzheimers Association @ www.alz.org
COOKING TIPS AND SUGGESTIONS
To avoid weight gain, or worsening the stresses of the season with excessive eating and drinking, moderation is recommended for family members of all ages. A great place to start would be healthy food preparation alternatives for favorites, especially in the case of cultural foods that will be expected. For instance, Soul Food lovers can emphasize baking instead of frying chicken, emphasizing roasted veggies on the plate instead of meat, candied yams and plenty of fruit instead of heavy pies. In Jewish cooking, cooking spray is recommended when preparing latkes, instead of oil, to make the light potato pancakes. Try to include foods like cranberry which is an acid and a disease fighter, and squash which is high in Vitamin A and Beta Carotene. Check out these suggestions from lowsaltfoods.com for special dishes and preparation ideas this holiday season!
The Best Viniagrette
Rib-Eye Steak with Brandied Mushrooms
Light Apple Tart
http://www.lowsaltfoods.com/food_center/recipes/dir_recipes.htm
Sources
www.voices.yahoo.com/celebrating-holidays-elderly-friends-family-702691.html
www.meredy.com/nursetips/holidayhealthtips.html
www.chowhound.chow.com/topics/850749
www.alz.org
www.womensday.com/sex-relationships/family/caregiver-elderly-parents
http://www.lowsaltfoods.com/
