When you think about your caregiver role for your elderly parent, you’ll likely first think of the tasks you complete for them and the benefit your care has for them.
As the holiday season approaches, it is important to think about not just what you do to care for your parent or how much of a difference you make in their life, but the value your relationship with them has for you. Making treasured memories during the holiday season is an important way to reconnect with your senior, create a more meaningful caregiver experience, and also preserve moments with them that you can carry with you far into the future.
Let these ideas inspire you four ways you can make treasured memories with your aging loved one this holiday season:
-Take plenty of pictures. You are likely to take a lot of pictures during the holidays as it is, but make sure you concentrate on taking pictures of the moments with your parent. Take pictures of everything from cooking to wrapping gifts to singing carols to eating meals. You will treasure these “candid” shots down the line.
-Make a recording of them singing. Ask your parent to sing their favorite Christmas carol and record it. This will allow you to play it in years to come so your parent is always singing with you.
-Make ornaments together. Even if you have a tree that is very specifically decorated, take the time to handcraft some special ornaments together .have your parent put some of themselves into the ornament, such as writing their name and date on the back and adding a thumbprint. This will provide a tangible connection for future Christmases.
-Create a memory book together. Sit down with your parent and ask them to share stories with you about their Christmases when they were younger. Ask about their favorite memories, the things they liked to do the most, and what they remember about their families. Record these memories and then add your own memories about when you were younger. Be sure to leave plenty of space for future generations to ad memories as well.
Senior care is not just about having someone with your parent when you aren’t with them.
In fact, involving an in-home senior care services provider in on activities, outings, and events with your entire family can be a powerful way maximizing your time and energy, making the most of your multi-generational caregiver approach, and encouraging the best quality of life for your parent. During these activities and events, your senior may be worried that they aren’t getting the care they need, or that they will have to interrupt you in order to get assistance. This can worry them, leading to anxiety and possibly discouraging them from wanting to be a part of these activities.
From your perspective, you may feel concerned about your loved one, and turn more of your attention to them rather than to enjoy the experience. Having a senior home care services provider with you during these activities gives your parents access to consistent, dedicated care that fulfills their needs while also supporting them in participating as much as they can. This allows them to feel confident and stay comfortable and healthy, and encourages you to focus on your quality time with them and enjoying this opportunity to be with your family.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring a Caregiver in San Mateo, CA, contact the friendly staff at Home Care Professionals today.
Call (866)-940-4855
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