The holidays are often seen as a time of joy, togetherness and celebration. However, for many older adults, this period can trigger feelings of grief and loss. If they have lost a loved one or are experiencing other changes in their life, holiday grief in seniors is real and can affect their well-being. Here are seven practical tips to support your parent through holiday grief.
Acknowledge Their Feelings
The first step in helping your parent handle holiday grief is to acknowledge their emotions. Grief can take many forms, and everyone experiences it differently. Your parent might feel sadness, loneliness or frustration and these feelings can be heightened during the holidays.
Rather than pushing these emotions aside or minimizing their importance, let your parent know that it’s okay to feel the way they do. Validate their emotions by saying things like, “I know the holidays can be tough, and it’s okay to feel sad.” This simple act of acknowledgment can help them feel heard and understood.
Create New Traditions
While it’s natural to want to hold on to old traditions, it can also be healing to create new ones. The holidays may have felt very different when your parent’s loved ones were still around. Rather than focusing on what’s missing, try to introduce new activities or rituals that can be meaningful in the present.
For example, you might start a new tradition of baking a special dessert together or taking a walk to look at holiday lights. Small, positive changes can help shift the focus from loss to connection.
Stay Flexible with Celebrations
The traditional holiday celebrations may feel overwhelming or even painful for your parent. Instead of insisting on a large family gathering or a big celebration, consider keeping things more low-key.
If they aren’t up for a big party, suggest smaller get-togethers or even spending a quiet day at home. Let your parent know that there’s no pressure to celebrate in any particular way. Sometimes, flexibility can make all the difference in helping your parent feel more comfortable during the holidays.
Encourage Self-Care
During the holiday season, self-care often takes a backseat in the rush of holiday preparations. However, it’s important to encourage your parent to continue taking care of themselves, both physically and emotionally. This might include maintaining a regular sleep schedule, eating nourishing meals and getting outside for some fresh air.
Regular exercise, even a short walk, can help lift their mood and reduce feelings of sadness. Encouraging your parent to practice self-care will remind them that they deserve attention and care, even in tough times.
Talk About Their Loved Ones
If your parent is grieving the loss of someone close, it can be comforting to talk about the loved one during the holidays. Share memories, tell stories and reflect on the good times you all shared. This allows your parent to feel connected to the person they’ve lost while also honoring their memory.
Avoid steering the conversation away from the subject of loss, as this can lead your parent to feel isolated in their grief. Instead, let them guide the conversation and offer your support as they process their feelings.
Offer Emotional Support
Sometimes, the best thing you can do for your parent during the holidays is simply to be there. Listen when they need to talk, offer a shoulder to cry on and remind them that they are not alone.
Being present for them can provide immense comfort and remind them that they have a strong support system. Emotional support doesn’t always have to come in the form of words; sometimes just sitting together in silence can be just as meaningful. Let your parent know you are there for them in whatever way they need.
Seek Professional Help if Needed
If your parent’s grief becomes overwhelming or seems to be affecting their overall health and well-being, it may be helpful to seek professional assistance. Grief counseling or therapy can provide a safe space for your parent to express their emotions and work through their grief.
A counselor can also teach coping strategies that can help your parent navigate the challenges of holiday grief in seniors. If you notice signs that your parent is struggling more than usual, don’t hesitate to suggest professional help.
Supporting Your Loved One Through the Holidays
Grief can be a long and complex journey, especially during the holidays. For older adults, this time of year may amplify feelings of sadness or loneliness. It’s important to create an environment where they feel safe and supported.
At our retirement community, we know that this season can be tough for those experiencing loss or change. We’re here to make things easier for both you and your loved one. If your loved one is struggling with holiday grief, contact us today to learn more about how our exclusive programs and living options can help your loved one through the holidays.
