Home for the Holidays: Reconnecting with Seniors and Recognizing When Support May Be Needed

The holiday season brings warmth, tradition, and time spent with loved ones. But for many older adults, this time of year can also highlight feelings of loneliness, especially for those who live alone or have lost close friends or family members. For families who haven’t seen their aging loved ones in some time, the holidays also provide an important opportunity to notice changes that might signal a need for extra care or support.

At Griswold, we understand that holiday gatherings are more than celebrations—they’re opportunities to reconnect, reflect, and make sure our seniors are thriving both emotionally and physically.

The Hidden Challenge: Loneliness During the Holidays

While holidays are often filled with laughter and activity, many seniors experience them differently. Older adults may have fewer social events to attend or may feel the absence of loved ones who have passed away. This emotional isolation can have a real impact on mental and physical health. Even if they sound cheerful over the phone, an in-person visit might reveal signs of sadness, forgetfulness, or withdrawal that weren’t apparent before.

What to Pay Attention to When Visiting Loved Ones

Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or staying several days, use the time to observe your loved one’s overall well-being. Here are some subtle signs that may indicate they could benefit from additional support:

• Weight loss or poor nutrition: Peek into the refrigerator and pantry. Are there fresh, healthy foods? Are they eating regular meals?
• Neglected hygiene or appearance: Do they seem to be keeping up with bathing, grooming, and wearing clean clothes?
• Mood or behavior changes: Do they appear more anxious, withdrawn, or confused than usual?
• Disorganized home environment: Are bills left unpaid? Is the home messier or less maintained than before?
• Mobility challenges: Are they moving carefully, holding onto furniture for balance, or avoiding stairs?
• Missed medications or appointments: Are prescriptions filled and pill organizers up to date?

Holiday visits offer a rare glimpse into daily routines—details that can be easily missed during brief phone calls or check-ins.

Ways to Support Seniors During the Holidays and Beyond

Small gestures can have a big impact on how loved ones feel during the holidays. Involve them in activities such as meal preparation, decorating, or sharing family traditions. Encourage memory-sharing, simple crafts, or storytelling to make them feel included and valued.

If mobility or stamina are concerns, consider bringing in a caregiver to assist during gatherings so your loved one can participate comfortably. Most importantly, have gentle, honest conversations about how they’re feeling and what type of support might help them most.

Recognizing a need for help isn’t about taking away independence, it’s about preserving it. Services like companion care, meal preparation, transportation, and light housekeeping can make everyday life easier, safer, and more fulfilling.