Holidays are the perfect time to visit with older adults who are still living in their home.
It’s the perfect time to see how they’re really doing.
This year, use some of your time at home to do 3 things: make sure your older adults are doing well, make simple home safety updates, and start important conversations about the future.
Here are some tips that help you focus on important details that will make a big difference in the long run.
- If your parents or relatives are living independently, the holidays are a great time to discreetly check on them. By doing this every year and keeping notes, you’ll be able to spot changes more easily in the future.
- While you’re visiting, you might have an opportunity to make a few simple safety updates. These easy fixes don’t take much time and will help older adults avoid common accidents so they can stay independent longer. Checking areas such as the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom- avoiding throw rugs and installing a grab bar in the shower will make all the difference.
- When family gets together over the holidays, it’s a good opportunity for meaningful conversations. If you haven’t already started talking about aging and plans for the future, consider bringing up the subject at a strategic time. You might be surprised – many parents appreciate having these conversation and will be grateful that you brought it up–most importantly, having conversations in person is invaluable.
Celebrating the holidays and sharing meaningful conversations by letting your loved one know that the ultimate goal is to keep them in their home longer!