December not only marks the official arrival of winter, but also the hustle and bustle of the holidays!  This is a joyous time full of family and tradition, but for seniors, it can be a time that brings up painful memories or feelings of loneliness among other potential issues.  There are plenty of things we can all do to include our senior loved ones, as well as planning that can be done to ensure their good health and happiness well into the future.

Photo_Carla_Hiatt_Legacy_Retirement_Communities_Lincoln_Nebraska“Avoiding stress and depression during the winter months and especially during the holidays will help keep seniors happy and healthy,” emphasizes Carla Hiatt, Activities Director at Legacy Retirement Communities.  “At Legacy Retirement Communities we offer a wide variety of music, holiday light tours, social gatherings, and volunteer opportunities, along with assistance writing and sending holiday cards.  We bring in daycare kids and other younger groups to spend time with our residents throughout the year, especially during the holidays.  Our grief support group is also available to help those seniors who have suffered a loss come to terms with it.

Families and caregivers should make sure their senior loved ones feel included in activities and gatherings by letting them help with what they are capable of doing – everyone likes to feel needed.   Enjoy old family traditions and memories, as well as create new ones.    Listen to holiday music and reminisce about Christmases past, while you make a special family recipe!  Attend activities with seniors and use social media to help them feel close to long-distance or busy family members and friends during the holidays.  By far the most important thing one can do is to spend time with them.  Listen to seniors and allow them to share their thoughts and important stories. Let them tell you about their plans for their future – most are leading fun and interesting lives and love to share about it!  Seniors may also benefit from some help with keeping in touch with family and friends through social media, phone calls, and cards or using Skype or FaceTime technology.

All the time spent with your older relatives doesn’t all have to be doing ‘big’ activities or events either.  No matter what plans you make, be sure they have time to rest and pay special attention to changes in their physical health and their behavior since your last visit.  Most importantly, remember that seniors need and want your attention all year-round, not just during the holiday season.”

Photo_Jenn_Clark_Roper_and_Sons_Lincoln_Nebraska“Holidays and the cold winter months can be overwhelming for many, but especially for seniors who may find it more difficult to get out of the house without assistance,” says Jenn Clark, Grief Counselor at Roper and Sons Funeral Care.  “Feelings of loneliness and isolation can negatively affect physical and emotional health, as well as impact cognitive decline and the risk of dementia.

As caregivers, friends, family, and neighbors, it is very important to ensure that seniors are not isolated or lonely during the winter months.  It becomes so easy to isolate ourselves at home when it is cold, damp and dark out.  We need to be aware of this happening with our senior loved ones, and implement plans to ensure they are well cared for.  We can do this by setting aside time each day to check on them whether in person or over the phone, and to have others available to assist in that process. We need to be sure to include our loved ones in holiday plans, from taking them shopping to inviting them to attend programs and other events.

In addition to the importance of our seniors being involved and not becoming isolated during the harsh winter months, caregivers must focus on taking care of themselves as well.  Seeking respite through an agency such as the Southeast Nebraska Respite Care Network (administered by the YWCA), or asking for assistance from family members, or friends is an important way to ensure that you, as the caregiver, stay physically and emotionally healthy.

Aging Partners is a wonderful resource in our community.  They have six senior centers in Lincoln and four others in Lancaster County.  The senior centers offer daily meals, activities, health and wellness classes as well as transportation to the centers.  This is a great way to get our loved ones out of the house and meeting up with fellow peers.   Aging Partners also offers group exercise classes, educational programs and a variety of other workshops.  Another great resource for education is OLLI – the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNL.

If your loved one is involved in a church, look into what their church community has to offer.  Many offer transportation to/from church, and many have church members who visit with the senior population in their homes when they are not able to get out.  Lastly, loved ones are always encouraged to participate in the many activities that are offered in senior communities.  This allows everyone to socialize without the need to head out into the weather anywhere.”

She adds, “As family members and caregivers, it is our responsibility to be aware of the needs of our loved ones.  Holidays and times when family members are gathered together is a good time to watch for changes in health and mental well-being.   While it is sometimes easy to overlook subtle changes in health or mental status, family members and other loved ones who may not spend as much time with a senior may notice changes more readily.  It is important as a family to have an open, frank conversation when these situations occur.

During the holidays, we often find ourselves so busy that it is easy to neglect elder family members, and to forget to include them in plans.  Additionally, it is sometimes difficult to include less-mobile individuals in activities and events.   It is our understanding that the handi-van will be up and running again soon in the city of Lincoln.  They normally run for a few hours on holidays and it is helpful to families that may need to get a loved one to and from a place where a car may not work.  It is important for everyone to get out and do something fun during the holiday season, especially if you can enjoy these activities or events with family and friends.

There are several different things happening in Lincoln during the holiday season.  Keep an eye (or ear) on local media for upcoming events and happenings.  It is especially important to help loved ones who may be isolated to enjoy traditional activities and remain involved in holiday events.  Even a quick ‘holiday lights’ tour, getting out of the house and enjoying the beauty of the season is a great idea.

If your loved one is a recent widow or widower, it is important to watch for signs of depression. The holidays can be difficult on a good day; add in grief and you had an even more difficult holiday season.  Encourage your loved one to talk about their deceased spouse and what good memories they have of holidays past.  Encourage them to choose what traditions they may want to keep and what traditions they may want to stop.  It is not always necessary to continue doing things the same way just because that is how they have always been done.  Mix it up a little; if they want.   Lastly remember that it is ok to still have fun at the holidays with family, even if you recently lost a loved one.  Your deceased loved one would not want everyone sitting around moping during the holidays.”

Making your own holiday traditions that incorporate old and/or new aspects is a great way to make sure that the holidays are still full of happy memories for all.

Photo_Jen_Wubbels_Southlake_Village_Rehabilitation_and_Care_Center_Lincoln_Nebraska“As families change, through birth, adoption, marriage and death, so do family gatherings and holiday traditions,” Jen Wolf-Wubbels of Southlake Village Rehabilitation and Care Center points out.  “In my own family, I have experienced both the birth of my son and the death of my husband’s grandfather this year.  As our families are making plans for the holidays, I can see these events are altering our plans and family expectations.  It is pertinent to include all members of the family in your holiday planning, as change in holiday traditions can be hard.”

She continues, “As family and caregivers, it is our job to ensure our loved ones are not overlooked this holiday season.  I ponder what it must be like to have hosted the family Christmas dinner for the past thirty years and this year you have moved into senior living and will no longer be able to take on this task.  You are no longer the one to make the turkey, stuffing and pies.  This year you will be the guest.  I can only imagine for many this can be very frustrating.

In an attempt to include our loved ones in the new normal of the holidays, it may be time to ask grandma to teach us how to make her famous pumpkin pie, or let her pick the time and date of the event.  Maybe it is time to start new holiday traditions; many senior living facilities offer holiday meals and other fun activities for families to attend.  Remember these new traditions are not about the day they are hosted, but focus on the meaning, time spent together and memories being made.”

She also advises, “My recommendation for family members who will be visiting their senior relatives in senior living facilities over the holidays is to get involved and show interest in your loved one’s life in senior living.  There are so many fun things happening at Southlake Village this holiday season for people of all ages.  If you live far away, take the time to call and visit about their new home and experiences. I am sure you would enjoy hearing about the wonderful musical entertainment at our wine and cheese event or about decorating cookies with a youth group and photos with Santa.  Take the time to view your loved ones senior living facilities website or social media page; many will post fun pictures from all of their great events. These pictures will give you the opportunity to see what your loved one is participating in and are a great conversation starter.”

Photo_Stephanie_Petersen_All_About_Family_Lincoln_NebraskaStephanie Petersen of All About Family also agrees about the importance of regular activity and interaction.  “At holiday time it is important to keep seniors from feeling isolated. Traditions are very important to them, so carry them on, OR start a new tradition and make them the reason for doing so. For example, one lady loves pitch. The family started a pitch party Christmas eve, and the winner got an extra gift on Christmas day. Seniors already feel as if the younger generations are forgetting their heritage, so this attempts to alleviate that a little.  All About Family caregivers can take them to look at Christmas lights or go shopping for gifts and then wrap them with/for them. Addressing Christmas cards is a common request.  We can help them make Christmas ornaments which they could give as gifts. Creativity is the key. They like options and being able to choose what they want to do!  If visiting seniors, most of you know what is important to them…focus on that.  Be interested in them and their stories. Your presence alone is enough.  Undivided attention is hard to come by and is to be cherished. Love your family/friends and create memories.”

Photo_Roxann_Rogers_Meyer_Immanuel_Communities_Lincoln_NebraskaRoxann Rogers-Meyer of Immanuel Communities also offers some ways for seniors to stay active while creating new memories and traditions during the holidays.  “The holidays can be a difficult time of the year for seniors living in a retirement community.  They may not have family close by to celebrate the holidays and that may bring up feelings of loneliness and isolation during a time that should be filled with joy and anticipation.  The Landing at Williamsburg Village, an Immanuel community, recognizes these feelings and plans a full calendar of activities and events to involve our residents.

The Landing is decorated for the holidays with over forty Christmas trees, holiday greenery, lights, glitter and sparkle!  This atmosphere puts our residents, family members, staff and guests in a festive spirit.  They enjoy participating with The Landing Melodrama cast in a sing along to all types of music including Wayne Miller, Tom White, Billy Troy, The Lincoln Continentals and an A Capella group devotion.  The Landing Silver Cords Choir will be featured entertainment during December.  Residents will also enjoy an outing to hear the Lincoln Symphony Orchestra and a Christmas light bus tour.

The dining staff creates special menus for the holiday season and many of the special items conjure up memories of the past for the residents.  The residents enjoy discussing their favorite entrée or favorite holiday cookie with the servers.  Many of our servers consider the residents their second set of grandparents.

Special worship services are planned for Christmas Eve and these services are a time for residents to gather as a community dedicated to building and nourishing a strong community, a place where seniors can plan their best possible futures without ever losing themselves.  All of our activities and events are designed for the residents and their families to be a part of The Landing during this special time of the year.”

Photo_Deb_Maguire_High_Plains_Memory_Care_Lincoln_NebraskaDeb Maguire, Administrator at High Plains Memory Care, offers some helpful holiday tips:

“Season’s greetings! Of all the gifts exchanged this year the most precious may be the simple gift of giving our time and caring for one another.

For caregivers the holiday season can be a bit overwhelming. To keep your holidays merry and bright it is important to know that for many years after the onset of dementia, long-held memories remain intact. Often it is helpful to stick with the holiday routine your family member has been accustomed to over the years. Symbols such as Christmas trees are reassuring and comforting. If your loved one doesn’t remember names or recognize rapidly changing grandchildren, remember: ‘Don’t correct; only connect.’ For example, don’t say, ‘Don’t you remember? This is your first grandchild Peter.’ Instead say, ‘Grandma, your grandson Peter is here and wants to give you a hug.’

Or if you visit grandma in her memory care living community and she says, “I want to go home.” Don’t say, ‘This is your home now.’ Logic is unlikely to improve this type of situation. Instead say, “Mom, remember that house we had in Lincoln when I was in grade school? You made it such as wonderful home. And your room here with all the familiar furniture reminds me of it. You always make your home so cozy.” Honor her thoughts of home and gently change the subject.

If grandma laments long-lost ornaments or items, find similar ones. She may not remember giving away that beloved red teddy-bear on the tree, but you can find one like it. If grandpa gets upset because his holiday sweater is missing, get another one.

Find tasks that are meaningful and achievable, such as baking or decorating the tree. Go through old family albums and bring up good memories.

Don’t treat a demented elder in a patronizing or demeaning way. It’s sometimes remarkable what a person with dementia can still do. I remember my dad, with full-blown Alzheimer’s, could still beat me at penny poker!

Just give plenty of extra time. Experts suggest that ‘Hush; don’t rush’ is a good policy. Keep things simple and relaxed. It takes enormous patience but is often rewarded with a meaningful and loving time together.

By adjusting your expectations and modifying some traditions, you can still find meaning and joy for you and your family. Here are some ideas:

• Involve your loved in preparations as much as possible with tasks such as signing cards, decorating and filling stockings

• Be sure to have all medications filled and ready before the hustle and bustle begins

• Evaluate environment where you will celebrate and identify a place for  quiet and rest, note barriers to safety

• Educate guests in advance of changes since they last saw your loved one

• Be mindful of noise. A child’s toy or video games can create over stimulating background noises

• Choose which holiday traditions are most important to you and your family and prioritize

• Utilize your support system to get extra time for shopping and errands

Prepare ahead and ask for help, educate those close to you of your needs and most of all take care of yourself.   We wish you and your loved ones a heartwarming holiday season. We look forward to assisting you today and throughout the coming year. Enjoy the holiday season and know we are here to support you.

Feel free to call High Plains at 402-438-0250 and ask for me (Deb) to schedule your free tour.”

Photo_Amy_Fish_Lancaster_Rehabilitation_Center_Lincoln_NebraskaAmy Fish of Lancaster Rehabilitation Center also speaks to the importance of remaining involved in the lives of senior loved ones.  “Feeling love and compassion is important for seniors to feel every day of the year, but especially during the holiday season.  Memories made during the holiday season last forever, and are important for seniors to continue to experience.  The holidays seem to be overbooked with parties and activities, so it’s important to plan in advance to make that special time happen.

The Lancaster Rehabilitation team has created a calendar packed full of carolers, cookies and Claus!  We offer a variety of events and socials to keep the holidays merry and bright.  The Lancaster Rehabilitation family is thankful for the many community volunteers who give of their time, talents, and monetary donations to ensure our residents have gifts to open Christmas day. Together we continue to make memorable moments happen on our campus.

For seniors in the community, volunteering to take a simple Sunday evening drive around town to see the holiday lights is a fun, stress free activity.  In addition, there is a variety of holiday musical performances and religious offerings to keep seniors active and involved throughout the holidays.”

She adds, “When visits with loved ones are limited to one or two times per year, the physical and cognitive signs of decline in overall health may be more apparent than to those who visit routinely.  You may notice hygiene concerns, or medications that appear to be mismanaged. There may be a lack of fresh food available, or a withdrawal in conversation on topics that used to interest them. If you notice these sorts of concerns there are a variety of senior services available in the community that can step in to help.  Services ranging from chore duty assistance, all the way through to care in a skilled nursing center are all available to seniors in our community.  Family members just need to determine what the most appropriate support for their current situation, and determine what works for their current and future needs.”

As far as mobility concerns for seniors in the winter months, she emphasizes, “Getting out and about in the winter months can be treacherous for anyone, let alone for those who have physical limitations or safety concerns.  Therefore, before deciding to make that trip to the store, or medical appointment, seniors need to be sure the route will be free of obstacles like snow banks or icy sidewalks.  Volunteering to clean the drive or sidewalk for a senior is a kind gesture and may allow them to make even simple trips to the mailbox worry free.  Another kind gesture would be offering to assist them with their travel needs, or just stopping by to pass the time. The cold and dangers of winter can isolate seniors, making simple tasks more difficult.  It is important to lean on the many resources our community offers to seniors every day, including things like meals on wheels, and home health care services.  At Lancaster Rehabilitation we also offer short term respite stays, where seniors can take up temporary residence, until spring arrives. That way, they get all the comforts of home, plus an actively engaged activity program, and delicious home cooked meals!”

While we may smile at Norman Rockwell’s whimsical painting depicting the “Tired Salesgirl on Christmas Eve”, thousands of Americans feel just as worn out during the holiday season without wrapping one gift or attending one party.

These worn out citizens are the family members who attend the needs of aging parents or an ill spouse, relative or family friend every day, all year long.  By December, many home caregivers feel so weary and overwhelmed with daily duties that the thought of idyllic families enjoying the holidays only adds sadness, depression and resentment.  Instead of the last weeks of the year being filled with fond memory-making, many family in-home care providers struggle with feelings of “Bah Humbug!” from being burdened and isolated from the rest of the celebrating world.

Photo_Anne_Deterding_Right_at_Home_Lincoln_Nebraska“The holidays are particularly challenging for family caregivers because they often feel torn between being there fully for their loved one and wanting to be free to enjoy festivities with family and friends,” says Anne Deterding, owner of Right at Home In Home Care & Assistance. “Fortunately, there are workable solutions so caregivers can do both and avoid extra stress and negative feelings that tend to surface during the holidays.  When our staff assists a family with adult home care, we see firsthand how important it is for family caregivers not to feel alone or forgotten while the rest of the community celebrates the season.”

Deterding suggests the following ways family caregivers can lighten their load from now through New Year’s:
Allow for “good enough” – If you only have time to bake one round of cookies, it’s good enough.  If you need to send your holiday cards after January 1, it’s good enough.  For family caregivers already stretched thin, perfect isn’t always the wise choice.
Be free from the “shoulds” – Free yourself from the mindset that there’s a right way to spend the holidays.  Consciously toss aside these statements:  “I should feel chipper.  I should have people over.  I should carry on our usual holiday plans.”
Extend compassion to yourself – Compassion and gentleness are gifts family caregivers can give back to themselves.  Taking time for regular exercise and leisure activities allows for healthy self-care.  For their own holiday wish lists, caregivers might enjoy special treats including nail treatments, massages and restaurant gift cards.
Practice letting go – Family caregivers can waste emotional energy wishing circumstances were different for their loved one.  A key to enjoying the holidays is to cease fighting what is beyond one’s control.  Determine to end the year letting go of disgruntled attitudes, relationship squabbles and past mistakes that can interfere with the best care for an aging or ill relative.
Plan ahead and ask for help – Simplify priorities.  Ask other family members to take shifts and rely on professional caregivers like Right at Home to step in with a variety of services from respite care and transportation to light housekeeping and meal preparation.

Even Norman Rockwell added a little lightheartedness to the picture-perfect holiday with his cross-eyed sales clerk who survived the Christmas rush.  No one was designed to run ragged by doing it all during the holidays, especially family caregivers who choose to narrow their focus on the priceless gifts of extending love and self-sacrifice to another.

The holidays are a busy time for all and it’s easy to get torn in many directions, but once you get settled into family visits and celebrations, there are also some things that you should pay attention to at the same time.  “The holidays can be a happy time for catching up, but as loved ones age, this is also a time that many will discover signs of their loved ones declining,” notes Betty Glanz-Garcia of The Windcrest at Van Dorn.  “When spending time this year, pay attention to key indicators that additional assistance may be needed.  Make sure your loved one is continuing to look after their personal appearance/hygiene, taking medications as prescribed and eating properly, and that his/her home isn’t showing any signs of neglect. This includes:

Physical appearance: Weight loss/gain, signs of depression/other health issues.

Smell: When you give hugs to your loved one, do you smell a strange odor?

Household chores:  Check to see if trash cans are full, expired items are present in the kitchen, for an excess of dirty dishes or laundry, etc.  Make sure to look in the kitchen to see if there is fresh food in the refrigerator and take a peek at the pots and pans to see if they show signs of being burnt.

Driving abilities: Take your loved one for a test drive to assess their driving skills.

Finances: Check the mailbox, and make sure there are no unopened bills or an excess of unopened mail.

Should you need to address any of these issues, it is often best to prepare what you want to say to your loved one beforehand.  Focus on ‘I’ statements that express your concern to help your loved one maintain the life he/she deserves as he/she ages. This can be difficult and emotional for everyone involved. The earlier you start the conversation, the easier the transition will be when needed.

The holidays are a time for families to enjoy being together, and also a great opportunity to create a care plan for your loved one.  Sometimes the assistance of family, friend or caregiver is enough. If more comprehensive care is needed, there are assisted living communities, in-home care, and a wealth of other resources available.”

She continues, “During the holidays, we feel it is important to offer opportunities for our residents to look back on Christmas’ past and reminisce or to contribute to our community Memory tree.  Memorial services are also offered to honor our residents who have passed away during the year.  As for holiday fun at The Windcrest at Van Dorn, our residents really enjoy our candlelight Christmas dinner and entertainment. Residents are encouraged to join the staff in decorating their home for the holidays (the Windcrest Community, not just their own apartment), as well as to join other residents and guests for plenty of holiday crafts, games, performances by local school choirs and bell choirs, Christmas light tours, and of course, holiday treats!”

Photo_Leslie_Frank_Nebraska_Hearing_Center_Lincoln_NebraskaAnother major sign to look for is hearing loss, which is often a gradual process and can make communication with others very difficult.  “People with hearing loss slowly begin to isolate themselves because it is easier”, says Leslie Frank MS, CCC-A; owner of Nebraska Hearing Center. “Your loved one may not even realize they are doing it; or that it is due to a hearing loss. Others may assume they are disinterested or rude.  The reality is they just can’t hear.  It is also easy for loved ones to avoid conversations with that person because ‘Grandma can’t hear me.’  It’s a wonderful time for get-togethers with family and friends, and hearing better can make those interactions more meaningful.”

Technology is really changing the world of hearing.  Nebraska Hearing Center offers wireless technology combined with a small remote.  It is designed to improve hearing when using cell phones; or when watching TV or listening to music.  The technology really improves the clarity when in meetings, noisy places, or while at church.  “Our clients who have recently purchased these new aids, really love them”, says Leslie.  “They are amazed with the difference between the new ones and their old ones.”

Whether it’s a visit with a close friend or a large holiday gathering, communication is at the heart of it all.  If a loved one is struggling to hear; those special moments may be lost.  A free hearing evaluation and consultation can help ensure you enjoy the holiday time to the fullest.  Common signs to look for regarding hearing loss are:

*Your loved one can hear loud enough, but can’t understand conversations; *They overuse the word “what”; *The TV is too loud for others; *They have trouble understanding a conversation in a noisy environment, like a restaurant; or *They have ringing in their ears.

The discussion can be as easy as urging an annual hearing evaluation to be part of their normal healthcare routine.  An evaluation allows you to establish a baseline and monitor your hearing every year.  At Nebraska Hearing Center the test is free.  You don’t want your loved ones missing out on those important family times.

Seniors look forward to gatherings with friends and family.  Why not be an active participant and enjoy those gatherings?  If aids can make life more enjoyable, it is worth the investment.  Give the gift of better hearing to yourself or a loved one this holiday season!

Photo_Vicki_Newman_Lincoln_Family_Funeral_Lincoln_Nebraska“It is heart wrenching when seniors experience feelings of loneliness and isolation or feel left out or forgotten during the holidays,” says Vicki Newman of Lincoln Family Funeral Care.  “As someone who uses a power wheelchair, like those who are older or have health issues I truly understand that it can be a challenge to get outside in the cold, snow or ice.  There are some wonderful resources in Lincoln to assist seniors in getting out and about safely during the holidays, including local churches, Aging Partners, or in-home care or outreach programs.”  She adds, “If each person has just one connection, it goes a long way towards avoiding sadness and depression.  Nobody wants to feel like they are alone, especially during the holidays. I challenge each of you reading this to step out of your comfort zone and to contact an organization such as Aging Partners to see if there’s a senior in need of companionship.”

Photo_Angela_Varela_Savannah_Pines_Lincoln_NebraskaAngie Varela of Savannah Pines also speaks to the importance of reaching out to seniors in an effort to keep them from feeling isolated or lonely, especially during the holidays.  “An article from Medscape.com recently stated, ‘Social isolation is a major and prevalent health problem among community-dwelling older adults, leading to numerous detrimental health conditions.’  Holiday months are particularly busy and it’s easy to forget about those who may be lonely or not as busy with social events and holiday gatherings.  If you have a senior neighbor, check in with them every once in a while in person or by phone. Visiting with them about their memories of the holidays and their traditions are ways to facilitate very meaningful interaction.  Extending invitations to accompany you and your family to holiday performances at school or church are also greatly appreciated.

There are many ways to enjoy time with family over the holidays, wherever and however you spend them. For the younger crowd, offer your senior relatives opportunities to participate in games on the computer and electronic devices.  If they choose not to participate, watching others play can be enjoyable.  Helping to prepare their home for winter is important and can be done during holiday visits.  For example, make sure their furnace and home heating systems are properly maintained and checked.  This is crucial to ensure proper function throughout the winter.   Be sure to ask your senior relatives how they are getting along with their own cooking, housecleaning, and home maintenance to see if it is time for help.”

She continues, “Holiday months are among the busiest at Savannah Pines.  We enjoy Husker football games in our state-of-the-art theatre that seats 150.  Local choir and instrumental music groups are scheduled to perform.  Community groups visit regularly to present educational information on topics such as Medicare, Veterans’ Services, and Healthy Lifestyles.  Multiple exercise programs are held weekly for our residents to focus on strength, balance, and cardiovascular health.  Leona, one of our current residents, explained it well.  ‘At Savannah Pines, there is no lack of transportation or independence.  Everything is right here.  You don’t need to go out and worry about the cold.’

Several of the residents of The Waterford Communities in Lincoln also offered some of their personal holiday experiences:

“Holidays here at The Waterford are decorated beautifully, and the activities director goes out of her way to personalize the holidays for each individual resident as well as a group. If you have to give up your home to go live somewhere else, this is the best place to be. When my husband got sick they recommended we bring him here, and we couldn’t have asked for anything better. Everyone is wonderful and very nice.” – Isabell Ringland

“My husband and I picked The Waterford because it is small and a family place. During the holidays we always celebrate in a fellowship and together, and you never feel like you are alone. Our families can join us for the holidays, or anytime they want to visit, which we love.” – Wanda Hedges

“One thing I really enjoy about The Waterford is that I can decorate my room the way I want it to look. I can put up decorations for all the different holidays to my taste. I love being able to have my grandkids come and visit whenever they want. Everything is so nice here, and the people taking care of us are good. There is always some fun activity going on for all of us to enjoy.” – Margaret Covert

“Christmas at The Waterford is always the best because you can spend the day listening to Christmas music, doing crafts, having delicious snacks, and even getting a visit from Santa! I just love how I can put up my own decorations in my room and still enjoy the festivities in the whole building. I’m so happy to be at The Waterford because I love the staff and the small, family like environment. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.” – Clarene Klein

“Christmas is more fun when residents, their families, and our staff join in together to celebrate at The Waterford,” says Mary K., Activities Director of The Waterford at College View.  “In order to accomplish this we do a ‘12 Days of Christmas’ celebration. Our version of 12 Days of Christmas consists of daily games for the staff and residents to participate in, a visit and photos with Santa Claus, facility decorating, and a Christmas party for our staff and their families. During our Christmas party we play more games and give away prizes, have snacks and drinks, and we also do a staff gift exchange. The residents also have their own Christmas party which consists of games, contests, snacks, and another visit from Santa Claus. Another fun activity that we do with staff and residents is sing Christmas carols together in a group. We always look for the most fun and enjoyable ways to celebrate the holidays together as a family and team.”

Photo_RJ_Lipert_Alarm_Link_USA_Lincoln_NebraskaMany adults struggle with constant worry as to whether or not their senior loved ones are able to continue living safely and happily in their own homes.  One way to alleviate this is to consider giving the gift of a medical alert device and/or security system with an emergency reporting component.  AlarmLink USA provides security and emergency systems that are wonderful for seniors who are able to continue living in their own homes, and among these, the AlarmLink Medical Alert is especially popular among seniors and truly is a life saver.  RJ Lipert, owner of AlarmLink USA, explains, “We have an array of products and services that can be tailored to fit the needs and lifestyles of seniors.  Our most popular of those is the Personal Emergency Reporting System, which is a supervised wireless emergency reporting product. The transmitter is convertible, meaning that we can install it in a wristband or a pendant in addition to options for table-top or wall-mount consoles.  This system offers 24/7 emergency monitoring from the staff at AlarmLink USA, 2-way voice capabilities, smoke detection, and it’s also waterproof.  Because the lives and assets of our clients are at stake, we are committed to the flawless execution of our systems. We would be happy to provide more information on the various options for seniors and a free estimate on any of these products.  At AlarmLink USA, we take great pride in knowing that we play a role in keeping seniors safe and secure in their home, wherever that may be.”

Along the same lines of helpful resources for seniors, Care Consultants for the Aging’s Home Care Registry and ElderCare Resource Handbook have helped thousands of people in Nebraska and Iowa with their eldercare needs. You can access these resources online at www.careconsultants.com. By understanding the services, resources and options which are available locally, it is the hope of Care Consultants that seniors and their families will be able to make informed decisions which have the potential to enhance their quality of life and independence.

Photo_Jamie_Peters_Health_at_Home_Consultants_Lincoln_NebraskaTo stay independent, seniors must also stay healthy.  Having access to in-home health care provided by a registered nurse practitioner can significantly extend the time seniors are able to live in their own homes safely and happily.  “Being proactive is always the best approach,” emphasizes Jamie Peters of Health at Home Consultants.  “Many times, we are able to utilize our medical expertise to modify behaviors or offer beneficial tips that will head off problems before they become major issues. These are most often issues that will affect the senior’s ability to continue living in their own home, which makes them critical to address before they’ve compounded.  This may even be as simple as reminders to take medication and follow other medical orders or implementing a set schedule for care. We also offer a holistic approach in medical diagnostic evaluation, medication management and personalized home-based care.  Rather than attempting to get out in treacherous winter weather, house calls are almost always a much safer option for seniors.  The primary care physician also receives medical records and an update from each visit that is made, effectively covering every step that would be taken during a traditional office visit.”

Evidence supports that access to health services such as basic screening, labs, physical exams and patient education results in earlier detection, treatment and illness prevention.  Not only are emergency room visits and hospitalizations minimized or avoided completely by ensuring that seniors have access to essential healthcare services, but there is also a much closer personal relationship formed with the professionals that are providing in-home care.  “Having someone consistently available to check in is also a good thing for seniors—a friendly face and a chance for social interaction also goes a long way to keep spirits high and avoid feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially during the holidays,” adds Peters.

So as we are all enjoying the holiday season with our family and friends, it is important to be especially thoughtful of the seniors in our community who may not be able to do the same this year.  A little holiday cheer goes a long way, and spreading it around can make a huge impact in the lives of others as well as your own.  Also, make sure to take the time during the holidays to observe your senior loved ones, address any issues as needed, and to make plans for the future—because there’s no better time than the present!  Some adjustments may be simple and others may be very difficult, but rest assured the sooner any issues are addressed the easier the adjustment and the better the outcome.  We are blessed to live in a community where there are so many wonderful resources and support for seniors, not only during the holidays but all year long.  If you have questions, they have the answers.  If you have a problem, they can offer one or more solutions.  Instead of going it alone, we urge everyone to reach out and utilize the assistance that is available.

We wish you all, young and old, the happiest of holidays and a great start to the new year!