nursing homes

Making Christmas Bright for Residents in Nursing Homes

The holidays can be merry and festive when spent at home with the ones you love. But residents in nursing homes are prone to holiday blues. Being away from home with cognitive or physical limitations gives the feeling of frustration, isolation, and loneliness.

But there are different ways to make Christmas merry for senior adults in nursing care facilities. Simple celebrations and spending time together can be special and memorable.

Even senior adults with no family can still feel the magic of love and giving this Christmas through various activities. So, bring in the joy and spend time together for that meaningful holiday celebration.

Ways to Help Nursing Home Residents Celebrate

Senior residents are more than welcome to participate in holiday activities. From Christmas to Hanukkah, there are activities for every adult to enjoy.

The Gift of Time or Money

Being in nursing homes means you are well-cared for by professionally trained staff and caregivers. But nothing beats the feeling of being remembered and valued by the people dear to you.

The best give you can give to let them feel the Christmas spirit is a few minutes of your time. Share lunch with traditional family food to bring them joy and pleasure. Invite family members to join to show they are appreciated and valued.

Or you can organize or participate in donation campaigns to help others in need while experiencing an increased level of pleasure. Donating gifts or money will inspire younger family members to give back and bring more meaning to life.

Send Gifts to Loved Ones

Not being able to visit your loved one can be one of the most difficult things to do during Christmas. But if you are unable to make it due to a hectic schedule, you can send gifts that they can use every day for comfort or fun.

Consider the interest, pastime, or preferences of your loved ones in nursing homes. Below are useful gift ideas that will spread the feelings of joy and love this season:

  • warm blanket
  • socks
  • sweater
  • digital books
  • monthly subscriptions (magazine or movie streaming)
  • game boards, word games, dominoes
  • arts and crafts supply; colored pens, knitting kit, print books, coloring books, etc
  • CDs of favorite songs
  • Homebaked goodies like cakes, cookies, or traditional family food to bring back the good old days

Virtual Gathering

A virtual gathering is the best option if most of the family members are out of town, living in different time zones, or if health restrictions are still active. By connecting virtually families and residents in nursing homes can still interact and share family stories at the comfort of their homes.

Outdoor Activities

Take your loved one outside for a breath of fresh air. If possible, you can stroll around malls or landmarks to admire the Christmas decorations. Or, enjoy a family meal at your favorite restaurant.

These activities do not require too much energy or can be modified according to your loved one’s mood and current condition. Regardless of how you celebrate the holidays, these tokens will be treasured.

 

Looking for an assisted living facility that is the perfect fit for you or a family member? Check out our programs at Fallbrook Assisted Living by clicking here!


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