4 Ways to Celebrate the Holidays Virtually with a Loved One in Assisted Living
The pandemic has changed a lot of things in this world, especially the way we interact and spend time with our loved ones in assisted living. Being some of the most vulnerable populations for COVID-19, strict protocols are now in place to protect the elderly from contracting the virus.
But even the pandemic should not stop you from making your loved one in assisted living feel loved this holiday season. Here are four ways to celebrate virtually and make him feel included in your holiday festivities:
Prepare a personalized gift box
You do not need to buy something expensive to make your loved one feel special. In fact, it is going to be more meaningful to put a personalized gift box together with a beautiful holiday themed sweater and socks, some hot chocolate mix and even freshly baked cookies straight from your kitchen.
You can even include a Christmas album that could be played while you are doing your Zoom party to make the mood feel more festive and happier.
Send this gift box ahead of time and give special instructions to really make your loved one feel included in the celebration.
Follow some traditions even if you are celebrating virtually
Most elderly depend on traditions and can be one of the things that really make them feel that they belong in the family. If you are used to opening your gifts together on Christmas day or all dressing up in red, follow that even if you are only seeing each other online.
Make sure to give your loved one in senior living an important part in your program like saying taking part in any religious ceremony/saying or reading out the family favorite holiday story. No matter how simple your celebration is, it is the family traditions that will make it all the more special.
Prepare virtual games that your loved one can join in
A virtual Christmas celebration does not have to be boring. In fact, you can play games that your loved one can join in so he can really feel the fun of the season.
Just make sure that your games do not involve running around or doing things that could be risky for him. You can even ask their neighbors in assisted living to get in on the fun to make the celebration a community effort.
Take time to share in meaningful conversations
Although the pandemic has forced us all to be separated from our loved ones this Christmas, it does not mean that we can’t share meaningful conversations with them.
Seniors in assisted living especially love going back down memory lane and telling stories of your favorite holiday memories.
Ask each member of the family to share their fondest memories with your loved one and you can even give him your personal message to really make him feel that he is loved and cared for, even from a distance.
At the end of the day, Christmas should always be Christmas no matter what the situation is. So, make the effort to make this season extra special for your elderly loved one.
Any questions about our assisted living home plans or actions we are taking this holiday season to keep your loved ones safe? Click here to get in touch
Fallbrook Assisted Living is proud to offer its services to Fremont, NE, and surrounding areas and cities: Arlington, Cedar Bluffs, Ames Nickerson, Fontanelle, Arlington, Leshara, Colon, and Hooper
