The holidays are a time for connecting with elderly parents and our families, with our traditions, and with what makes our lives meaningful. How can we make this precious time a fulfilling opportunity rather than a stressful rush As usual, a client provided me with insight and inspiration!
Today I helped a client prepare her holiday cards. This 93-year-old has traveled and lived all over the world, and has a wide circle of friends and experiences.
Holiday cards are a way to keep her connected with her social network.
This year she had the very clever idea of using unused postcards to send out as holiday cards. It is very practical solution for someone with macular degeneration since it removes the stress of writing a long letter. She composed a brief – and very clever – message, which I printed on labels and attached to the cards.
The process of preparing the cards was magical.
She called it a “trip down memory lane” as she remembered all the places she had been and chose an appropriate card for each recipient. I learned more about where she had traveled and gained a deeper understanding about the people in her life.
I have a brand new appreciation for the connection that these rituals can provide. If we are creative, appreciative, and set aside the time to enjoy the simple acts of being together, it is easier to remember what the holidays are really about.
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Do you need help managing the care of an elderly loved one in Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, Staunton, or Waynesboro, Virginia?
Contact us at Care is There Geriatric Care Management 800.434.1633 or info@careisthere.com. We offer geriatric care management, support for independent living, assisted living enhancement, Aging Life Care™ services, and peace of mind for long distance caregivers.
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