Seniors and Christmas Shopping
The holiday season is a time of joy and connection, but it can also bring unique challenges for aging adults. Concerns about safety, health, or financial limitations may make Christmas shopping and celebrations feel overwhelming.
Heather Rehmer, Vice President of Operations at CHI Living Communities, shares her No. 1 tip for seniors: "Remember the reason for the season."
Simplifying traditions and focusing on meaningful connections can help seniors enjoy the holidays without stress. For example:
- Creative Gift Ideas: A family photo can become a cherished keepsake, or baking cookies for Christmas dinner can replace the need for numerous store-bought gifts.
Tips for Supporting Seniors During the Holidays
- Set expectations well before the holidays, so children know their grandparents will be cutting back on monetary gift-giving this year.
- Ask kids what new holiday tradition they’d like to start, such as everyone wearing their pajamas on Christmas Eve, so the focus is on the experience vs. the packages.
- Consider doing a gift exchange so seniors need to buy only one gift vs. gifts for many family members.
- Replace packages with stories – sharing funny family tales over hot chocolate, for instance, or taking the kids to see a movie for the holidays and then discussing it over a special meal out.
- Offer to take your senior parent / grandparent to the store so they feel safe, or ask if you might purchase their gifts for them. And, offer to wrap them, as well, if that may be seen as a chore. (Better yet, use inexpensive gift bags.)
- Let seniors know you and your children do not expect expensive Christmas gifts, but simply want to share more time with them around the holidays.
Respecting Seniors' Needs
The holidays can be bustling, with visitors, overnight guests, and festive noise. Seniors might prefer quieter gatherings before or after Christmas to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
"Sometimes, the best Christmas gift is simply the gift of time," says Rehmer. "Let your aging loved ones know how much they mean to you, and respect any boundaries they may need to set."
At CHI Living Communities, we believe the holidays – and the entire year – are a time to cherish connections with loved ones. Wishing you and your family a season filled with peace, joy, and meaningful moments!