November 27, 2024

Here we are, once again facing the holidays... Where does the time go!?! Halloween is behind us, ok, maybe that's not part of the holidays, but, certainly, it ushers in the holiday "spirit" of Thanksgiving, Christmas/Hanukkah, New Years, and Kwanzaa. These holidays can surely represent the "best of times, the worst of times."  Depending upon our upbringing and cultural ties, there are traditions, customs, and memories that have been created over the years.  

These can form our expectations, and sometimes dread, which can easily lead to resentment and disappointment as holidays draw near. A time of closeness and belonging? Of family and dear friends? Or isolation, grief, and loneliness... Often occurring from unmet needs and expectations.

For caregivers caring for their loved ones in cognitive/physical decline, change is the common ground. Traditions of the past most likely, of necessity, must be altered, a little or a lot; or perhaps done away with altogether. Pressures and uncertainty can cause estrangement or adjustments never encountered before.

Navigating the holidays, from the perspective of caregivers, is an individual situation, depending on a number of factors.

1.  How supportive and inclusive the family unit is capable of being.

2.  The willingness to be flexible and resilient as circumstances warrant.

3.  The adherence to caregiver boundaries as the moment dictates.

4.  An awareness of the care receiver's comfort and unmet needs.

5.  An awareness and adherence to caregiver comfort and unmet needs.

Our latest webinar, CAREGIVERS NAVIGATING THE HOLIDAYS brought together three caregivers from our Caring For The Caregivers Support Group who graciously agreed to share their individual experiences of holidays past, and adjustments to the holidays, in present time. 

For one caregiver, dealing with family estrangement, for another, spending the first holiday season since the passing of their loved one, to a caregiver mindfully adjusting the holidays to a loved one's present physical/cognitive challenges.

It is of the utmost importance that caregivers experience that they are not alone. Our support group, as we meet together three times weekly on zoom, accommodate members in a warm and supportive community. Additionally, they are encouraged to reach out to one another; to call, email, and text as means to check in and stay connected throughout the week. There is room for joy, sorrow, sadness, renewal, personal growth, understanding, and yes, most of all, unconditional love.

"IT HAS COME TO PASS, NOT TO STAY"

IN THE SEASON OF THANKSGIVING MAY WE BE MOST THANKFUL FOR ONE ANOTHER, UNCONDITIONALLY.

— Karen Kelleher, MA

Family Caregiver Support Program Coordinator

The holidays can be a challenging time, especially for those grieving the loss of a loved one.

Rev. Dr. Barbara Galloway-Lee shares thoughtful tips to help navigate this season with care and intention:

1) Plan Ahead

Finding time for holiday activities can be tricky, especially with added pressures. Create an action plan to prioritize your commitments and reduce stress. Writing down tasks ensures you won’t forget the important things and helps you focus on what truly matters.

2) Put Your Self First

Amid the season’s focus on giving, don’t forget to give back to yourself. Taking care of yourself improves your mood and allows you to support others better. Make time for activities you enjoy, get some fresh air, exercise, and prioritize rest to recharge.

3) Keep Your Finances in Check

The thought behind a gift matters more than its cost. Set a budget and stick to it. If finances are tight, consider baking treats or offering your time and talents instead of buying gifts. Let your spirit guide your choices.

4) Honor Loved Ones Lost

The holidays can be especially hard if you’ve lost someone dear. Reflect on cherished memories and find meaningful ways to honor them. Volunteer your time, contribute to a cause they cared about, or do something special in their memory.

5) Indulge in Moderation

Enjoy festive treats, especially those you only have once a year, but balance indulgence with mindful, healthy eating. 

6) Don't Be Afraid to Say No!

It’s okay to decline invitations or commitments that may cause stress or disappointment. Focus on events that bring you joy and say no to those that don’t serve your emotional well-being.

Watch the webinar recording below:

Every senior deserves the right to live with dignity and support.

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If you know an elder in need of our care and coordination services, or a caregiver seeking support, please encourage them to reach out to us at: 

510-834-8314