Many people say that Thanksgiving is their favorite holiday. What’s not to like? We get to enjoy good food, family time, football, and maybe a nice nap. The magic of Thanksgiving is that it’s all about gratitude and being together.
For seniors, being around loved ones and engaging in cherished family traditions can bring great comfort and connection. Family gatherings are also a good time to observe older loved ones and check for any changes in how they’re doing.
In particular, as you’re enjoying your time together, take note of:
- Changes in balance and mobility. If you notice any hesitancy in walking, changes in gait or expressions of pain during movement, you may want to schedule an appointment with the doctor to investigate potential joint, muscle or neurological problems. These changes may lead to falls and injuries.
- Signs of weight loss. Conditions such as depression, dementia or serious illness can cause weight loss. Some seniors lose their appetite because medications and aging in general can change how their food tastes. Excessive weight loss can be a cause for concern.
- Emotional stability and well-being. Holidays offer an opportunity to observe your loved ones for signs of depression and withdrawal. Note any changes in sleep patterns, loss of engagement in normal interests and lapses in personal hygiene.
- Changes in home upkeep. If your loved one normally keeps an immaculate home but doesn’t seem to be maintaining their house as usual, it could be a red flag. If things seem ‘off’ – like scorched cookware, dirty dishes, expired food or medications, or dirty laundry – you may want to have a doctor rule out any physical problems.
What about COVID-19? Last year, indoor family gatherings were discouraged because of the risk of transmitting the COVID-19 virus to vulnerable seniors. This year, many families may be looking forward to an opportunity for normalcy and a return to family traditions.
With many seniors and family members fully vaccinated, traditional gatherings may not pose any undue risks. However, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) continues to advise that outdoor activities are safer than indoor ones. If you are attending an indoor gathering, choose a location that is well ventilated, such as a room with open windows, and know when to wear a mask. According to the CDC, people who have an underlying condition or are taking medications that weaken their immune system may still get the virus even if they are fully vaccinated. If you are around immunocompromised family members or you have guests who are unvaccinated, masks are strongly recommended.
If you are considering traveling for the Thanksgiving holiday, the CDC maintains a Travel page to help you stay abreast of current guidance.
Whatever your plans are, we wish you a safe and blessed Thanksgiving holiday. If you find that a loved one appears to need help or isn’t as independent as he or she once was, Kadan Homecare is always here to answer questions and assist you in any way we can. For more information or to talk with our team, call 770-396-8997 or email info@kadan.org.
