Are you in New Jersey or traveling out of the area for the holidays? Here in ‘jersey, many of us have fond memories of watching the balloons being inflated the night before the big parade and then shivering on the streets of New York City on Thanksgiving morning. Maybe your family tradition was more football (and maybe still shivering) and enjoying great seats in the living room watching it all on the television. Thanksgiving is a great holiday because it’s about family and enjoying each other.
As you think ahead to gathering with your loved ones, especially the retirees, can everyone still enjoy the same activities and schedules as years gone by? Maybe a few need a bit of assistance or reminders. Our nurses visit seniors in their homes, everywhere from Park Ridge to Ridgefield Park and Fort Lee to Rutherford … all across Bergen County, and they have pulled together a few things to watch for as you visit family this holiday season.
Create a Quiet Space: Family gatherings can get noisy and overwhelming, especially for those with limited energy or noise sensitivity. Set up a quiet, private space where your loved one can take a break when needed. Whether it's a cozy corner or a separate room, having a peaceful spot to relax will help them recharge and rejoin the festivities when they're ready.
Ask for Medication Schedules: If your loved one takes regular medications, plan their schedule beforehand. Ensure they take their medications as needed and bring any necessary supplies, like pill organizers or extra prescriptions, to the gathering. This ensures they stay on track with their health and minimizes the risk of missing a dose during a busy day.
Seat Strategically: Choose a seat for your loved one that’s easy to access, like near the restroom or close to an exit in case they need a break. This thoughtful arrangement helps them feel at ease, avoiding crowded areas or long walks. Placing them away from the busiest part of the room can also reduce sensory overload if things get noisy or overwhelming.
Watch for Fatigue: Pay attention to your loved one’s energy levels throughout the day. Family gatherings can be overwhelming, especially for older adults or those with health challenges. Look for signs of fatigue, like slower movement or irritability, and suggest a break if needed. Regular check-ins and rest periods can help prevent overstimulation and ensure they stay comfortable and engaged for the rest of the day.
Provide “Personalized “ Care: Everyone has unique care needs, so it’s important to take a personalized approach when supporting your loved one. Focus on what works best for them—whether it's mobility assistance, dietary preferences, or specific routines. Tailor the day to their needs, like providing help with meals or creating a quieter space if they prefer. By focusing on their comfort, you’ll ensure they can fully enjoy the day.
For fifteen Thanksgivings, our aides, nurses, and therapists have assisted families. Our staff is accomplished in a variety of services, most recently with hospital-at-home type programs. Our takeaway from that work continues to be that the most important parts of wellness are families and comfort at home.
Wherever home may be, we wish you and your family a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving.
If there’s something we can ever do to assist, please reach out! We’re available 24/7 for questions or guidance (especially if it comes with the potential of pumpkin pie).
Our business office is 70 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 101, Emerson, NJ 07630, at (201) 483-8490.
Happy Holidays! BrightStar Care team Greater Hackensack, New Jersey.
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As you think ahead to gathering with your loved ones, especially the retirees, can everyone still enjoy the same activities and schedules as years gone by? Maybe a few need a bit of assistance or reminders. Our nurses visit seniors in their homes, everywhere from Park Ridge to Ridgefield Park and Fort Lee to Rutherford … all across Bergen County, and they have pulled together a few things to watch for as you visit family this holiday season.
In Planning: Consider Timing
Energy levels can vary for older adults, so plan the gathering around their peak times. Many feel more energized earlier in the day, so a lunchtime or early afternoon meal may be ideal. If the event is in the evening, keep activities shorter and allow for breaks to prevent fatigue.Create a Quiet Space: Family gatherings can get noisy and overwhelming, especially for those with limited energy or noise sensitivity. Set up a quiet, private space where your loved one can take a break when needed. Whether it's a cozy corner or a separate room, having a peaceful spot to relax will help them recharge and rejoin the festivities when they're ready.
Ask for Medication Schedules: If your loved one takes regular medications, plan their schedule beforehand. Ensure they take their medications as needed and bring any necessary supplies, like pill organizers or extra prescriptions, to the gathering. This ensures they stay on track with their health and minimizes the risk of missing a dose during a busy day.
During the Gathering: It’s Okay to Offer Assistance
If your loved one needs help serving or carrying their plate, offer assistance discreetly. For those with mobility challenges, a little help can make a big difference, but it’s important to do so without drawing attention to their needs. By offering support with respect and sensitivity, you ensure they feel cared for and maintain their dignity.Seat Strategically: Choose a seat for your loved one that’s easy to access, like near the restroom or close to an exit in case they need a break. This thoughtful arrangement helps them feel at ease, avoiding crowded areas or long walks. Placing them away from the busiest part of the room can also reduce sensory overload if things get noisy or overwhelming.
Watch for Fatigue: Pay attention to your loved one’s energy levels throughout the day. Family gatherings can be overwhelming, especially for older adults or those with health challenges. Look for signs of fatigue, like slower movement or irritability, and suggest a break if needed. Regular check-ins and rest periods can help prevent overstimulation and ensure they stay comfortable and engaged for the rest of the day.
Provide “Personalized “ Care: Everyone has unique care needs, so it’s important to take a personalized approach when supporting your loved one. Focus on what works best for them—whether it's mobility assistance, dietary preferences, or specific routines. Tailor the day to their needs, like providing help with meals or creating a quieter space if they prefer. By focusing on their comfort, you’ll ensure they can fully enjoy the day.
For fifteen Thanksgivings, our aides, nurses, and therapists have assisted families. Our staff is accomplished in a variety of services, most recently with hospital-at-home type programs. Our takeaway from that work continues to be that the most important parts of wellness are families and comfort at home.
Wherever home may be, we wish you and your family a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving.
If there’s something we can ever do to assist, please reach out! We’re available 24/7 for questions or guidance (especially if it comes with the potential of pumpkin pie).
Our business office is 70 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 101, Emerson, NJ 07630, at (201) 483-8490.
Happy Holidays! BrightStar Care team Greater Hackensack, New Jersey.