12 tips for managing holidays with aging loved ones

The holidays can be both a time of great celebration as well as stress, regardless of stage of life. Managing the physical, health, and emotional needs of older loved ones while juggling festivities can feel particularly overwhelming.  Arbor Acres and Healthcare Administrator Shonette Pettiford offer helpful tips for supporting aging loved ones during the holidays that can help keep the joy in family celebrations and minimize feelings of guilt around trying to create the perfect experience for everyone.  Pettiford points out that the approaches families can take depend on circumstance.  “Aging loved ones might live at home with family members or in a healthcare environment where they may or may not be able to leave for short visits,” she says. “Of course, distance can be a factor in the ability for families to celebrate in person. Regardless of circumstance, pre-planning is key to minimizing stress and inviting joy into family holiday gatherings and interactions.” Whether you are celebrating with an older family member at home, in a healthcare setting or from a distance, consider the helpful tips Pettiford offers below to keep joy in the holidays and make them memorable.  *Pick-Ups/Drop-Offs. If your relative lives in a healthcare environment, be...