While it is always most satisfactory to have everyone together, it can be overwhelming for older people to be thrust into a loud, busy family occasion. For some, it is better to see family in their own surroundings, with their own comforts (and security), in smaller groups.
If you have a loved one in residential care with Radius Care, they will be well loved and cared for over the holiday season, with festive menus, special events like carol singing, church services and beautiful decorations. The staff pride themselves on offering exceptional care all year round, but at Christmas, they make certain all residents feel the spirit of the season.
If you are unable to be with your loved one on Christmas Day, here are some ways to show them that you are thinking of them.
- Make regular phone calls in the lead up to Christmas, as well as on the day.
- Use video calling functions on your phone or laptop so that they can feel part of your celebrations
- Send a care package, complete with Christmas baking, something to decorate their room or other treats
- Set up a visiting roster while the extended family is on holiday – it’s easier to make time when you are not juggling work commitments
- Enlist the help of family friends who live close by to call in and visit
- Make a family Christmas message or song and record it, so it can be enjoyed multiple times
- Take the time to write a letter, this is a tradition which is being lost, and is familiar and important to older people
- Let them know you are using their ‘famous’ recipe, or that you are carrying on traditions they taught you – take photos or small videos to share
- Remember them in a toast to ‘absent friends’ around your table