Holiday Thoughts

During the holiday seasons, we reflect on others who are less fortunate and reach out to others with generosity. Most of the focus is generally on the children, and that is appropriate, but inside each of us regardless of age, is the child within. We all respond to random acts of kindness. Most of our very elderly population seem to be uninterested in the holiday seasons, but most of the time, that isn't the case. They have just lost track of that holiday spirit because of a loss of family, lack of participation in the social circles they used to enjoy, or just due to poor health and depression. For many, poor health, functional decline and dementia will result in life in a convalescent facility where the only socialization they receive is from the staff. I know personally, that the staff who care for our elderly do an outstanding job and basically go above and beyond the call of duty to make the lifes of the elderly more comfortable. However, many folks are lonley and are forgotten or, at least they feel forgotten.

This is an opportunity for each of us to make a difference in the lives of another. Individually or in a group, we can adopt an elder and spend time with them in reading, listening to music or just allowing them to visit with you about their past and most pleasant memories. You can be the one to rekindle the love, warmth and spirit of the holiday season to the inner child of that elderly man or woman. You can reach out to remember them on their birthday, Mother's Day or Father's Day, and if they are a Vet, you can make that Memorial Day or Veteran's Day personal and memorable to them. If you decide to purchase a gift for the holidays, make sure that it is useful to them, and once it is received be sure to mark it with their name & let the staff know so they can list the item on their inventory sheet. If your elder lives in a convalescent care facility, it is easy to become lost. Items that are always appreciated in a licensed facility are: lotions, scented body wash or powder, after shave or colognes, slippers, writing supplies like pens, stationary with postage, newspaper subscriptions, magazines or books on tape for the visually impaired, crossword puzzels books, music on CD, or a lap blanket. Most needs are so modest and those items are not standard part of the care. If you have found a little elderly person who lives on his/her own or in a residential facility, you can do the same but you can mostly likely bring in homebaked goods, or take them out for a drive in the country, or to the corner cafe for coffee. Everyone enjoys a plant or bouquet of cut flowers. Give a little of yourself to someone who touches your heart and just see who really reaps the greatest benefit.