How to Help Family Caregivers During the Holidays
While the holidays are an exciting time, they can also add stress for many family caregivers. With the COVID-19 pandemic, the coming months may be especially challenging, as they will include several challenges for caregivers of older adults.
As we know, many family caregivers are also sandwiched between caring for their children and their parents, which only amplifies the stress surrounding holidays.
Here’s what you can do to help family caregivers this holiday season.
Educate About Safety
Older adults are at high risk for developing complications from COVID-19. While most caregivers know this, the holidays are a very tempting time to neglect precautions. Remind family caregivers how important it is to keep their older loved ones safe. Older adults should stay within their households for the holidays, limiting exposure to crowds. Any time they must leave home, they should practice social distancing, and everyone should wear a mask. The caregiver must also take precautions to prevent exposing their seniors to illness.
Provide Ideas for Staying Active Inside
Both older adults and caregivers need to stay active to stay mentally and physically healthy, but as the weather cools off, it can be hard to live an active lifestyle. Here are some options you can share with caregivers:
- Walking outdoors, when possible, or inside the home when the weather is bad
- Taking part in seated stretches, possibly with light hand weights for some resistance
- Cleaning
- Cooking
- Sorting old photos, keepsakes or memorabilia
- Completing household projects (painting, reorganizing, rearranging, DIY projects)
- Dancing to music
- Doing at-home workouts
Celebrate Virtually
Caregivers want to find safe ways to celebrate the holidays. Give them some ideas for implementing new virtual traditions and connecting with family members online. Some options include:
- Virtual dinner parties
- Virtual movie screenings
- Online games
- Sending letters and cards
- Window visits with relatives
Provide Caregivers Time for Self-Care
Many times, what family caregivers really need is a break. By the time we’ve reached the holiday season, family caregivers will have had a very difficult year of caring for an older adult during COVID-19. Always remember, you must first care for yourself.
CarePatrol can help you provide a break to family caregivers. Our experienced team can assist throughout the holiday season while family caregivers get a chance to practice self-care. We’ll help you find the safest senior housing option. Whether you need help finding a safer living option for an older adult or you need support after, CarePatrol is always here to help. Give us a call anytime at 866-560-5656.