While this time of year can be a special time for many, with an increase in family events and a time where many look forward to getting together, it can also be a sensitive time for those in aged care.
Moving a loved one into aged care is a difficult decision for some and a stressful time in anyone’s life. However, when this time of year rolls around and an uptick in family functions and activities, it can be tricky realising that your mum, sister or brother may not be present in the moment, like years gone by.
Rather than looking at what they might be missing out on, here are some tips to stay connected with your family this festive season, from quiet catch-ups to Christmas cards from the grandies.
Get Crafty
There’s nothing quite like a homemade card or gift, and this is one of our favourite things to see given with love to our residents. A perfect after school or weekend activity, encourage your kids or cousins to get involved and make a Christmas card or homemade gift to take in on your next visit. This can then be displayed in their room and makes for a special keepsake during this festive time of year. There’s nothing quite like the personal touch, and this will make them feel appreciated and valued.
Organise a special lunch
While your grandma or grandpa may not be able to join for your Christmas lunch, there’s the opportunity to organise a date and time with the family to pop into Georges Estate and have a special catch-up. You may choose to host an event in one of our shared spaces, inviting your extended family and really making an event for it. Or maybe you’d rather enjoy a coffee and slice of cake together while you exchange gifts. By putting aside time to spend quality moments together, it will create a sense of appreciation, love and reassure them that they are remembered and recognised in this special, but emotional time of year. Your loved one may have a favourite festive treat they’ve always enjoyed or your family may have Christmas traditions which you can now do in the comfort of their new home. The important to remember is that the smallest actions together can trigger positive reactions and memories.
Call on Christmas
While this may sound simple, it’s worth remembering that this everyday action actually can go a long way. One simple phone call can make an isolating time feel like a special one, especially if you can rope in some of the family to join in for the chat. You may be at Christmas lunch or brunch with the whole extended family, and this is the perfect time to pass the phone around the table to say a merry hello and check in. With technology available to many, it’s not hard to arrange a video chat or phone call. Our friendly staff and nurses are here to help.
Make the most of our social calendar
In line with the current health or COVID restrictions, this is a wonderful time of year where we celebrate any way we can. From themed activities, such as crafts or baking, to Christmas parties and joint activities, there’s always something going on in our home. We highly recommend your loved one participates in these social occasions so they can create memories with their friends and staff in Georges Estate.
Christmas is a special time of year and our staff work hard to make sure you or your loved one feel festive, safe and valued. It’s also a time to think of those working tirelessly around the clock to make sure everything is running smoothly, when they too could be at home with family. They all work together to make this the most wonderful time of the year – and with your input too, there’s no reason for Christmas to be anything other than joyful and bright.
