Making Holidays Happier for the Whole Family

For many of us, the holidays are a joyful time of year to be with family and friends. However, for many older adults, the holidays can be very stressful and even depressing. Here are five tips to happier holidays for the whole family:

Remind people they are loved. – Tell those close to you how important they are to you and your family’s celebrations and traditions. If they were instrumental in starting or preserving a tradition, be sure to let them know how much that means to you.
Simplify. – Avoid the hype and return to the true meaning of the season. It’s the people that count. Gifts don’t need to be expensive or numerous. Sometimes “more” is just more.
Focus on children. – Find a school or spiritual program that features children. Children make the season magical. Be sure to include elderly family members in seeing performances, especially if a grandchild or great-grandchild is in it.
Decorate for the season. – Display cherished seasonal items. They instantly brighten up a room and spark happy memories. Create a special dining table with festive colors and place settings that makes every meal during the season feel like a celebration.
Spend time with loved ones. – Your time is a precious gift. Look at photos and videos with family members. Play holiday music. Ask people to share their favorite holiday memories with you.

Of course these suggestions are often easier said than done, but if you make your best attempt at them, you’ll likely find more peace and happiness in the season as well.

From the Kadan Home Care family to yours, all the best for the holiday season.
Here’s to a happy and healthy 2015!

Dina Kadan White2021-02-28T13:49:44+00:00December 18th, 2014|

About the Author: Dina Kadan White

As Vice President of Kadan Homecare, White oversees the day-to-to day operations and assists with strategic planning for company. White has worked with Kadan full-time for the past 11 years, although she has been engaged with the family-run firm at some level for most of her adult life. Prior to joining Kadan, White served as Director of Product Development at Equifax and previously was a Marketing Director with Wachovia. These jobs prepared her well for a position where she works for the benefit of all aspects of this highly client-focused agency. White holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from the Georgia Institute of Technology. She is a member of the National Private Duty Association, a membership organization for firms whose homecare model is to employ, train, monitor and supervise caregivers, create a plan of care for the client and work toward a safe and secure environment for the person at home. White is also a member of the National Association for Home Care and Hospice.