Home About Writers Categories Recent Issues Subscribe Contact File Transfer





Charlie Traffas
Charlie Traffas has been involved in marketing, media, publishing and insurance for more than 40 years. In addition to being a fully-licensed life, health, property and casualty agent, he is also President and Owner of Chart Marketing, Inc. (CMI). CMI operates and markets several different products and services that help B2B and B2C businesses throughout the country create customers...profitably. You may contact Charlie by phone at (316) 721-9200, by e-mail at ctraffas@chartmarketing.com, or you may visit at www.chartmarketing.com.
Senior Living
2009-12-01 08:24:00
Holiday “blues” don’t have to be
Answer: Thank you for the question. You’re right…talking about this subject as it relates to the holidays is not only timely, but it is also a perfect way to sort of “cap off” the series. Although the winter holiday season is supposed to be a time of sharing joy and good tidings, oftentimes seniors - find that, as the season unfolds they experience deep sadness and loneliness. . There are many influencing factors that can contribute to seniors being at particular risk of suffering from the “holiday blues”, including: Reminders of loved ones lost - For many seniors the holidays bring back memories of better, happier times. Many seniors have survived a number of their cherished family members and friends. Nostalgic memories of past holiday celebrations can lead to present cases of melancholy. These losses often take on greater significance during the holidays. The holidays are not what they used to be - For many older people, the memories of holidays past so outshine present day celebrations they feel unable to focus on or experience pleasure in the “now.” Unrealistic expectations - the holidays can bring a host of expectations, such as family togetherness, festive events and feelings of expanded happiness. Seniors can often feel lonely even at large family gatherings. The increase in the noise levels and the crowded activity can lead to a feeling of isolation for a senior who has suffered hearing loss. Reality too often falls short of these expectations, which can cause an individual to plummet to new lows of sadness, feelings of loneliness and despair. Spending the holidays alone - Some seniors live by themselves and/or at a distance from friends and family and spend much, if not all, of the holidays alone. Grown children often become busy with their own social obligations and may not realize how much their parents or grandparents look forward to sharing time during the holidays with them. Coping with failing health - The holidays can often serve to underscore the limitations failing health imposes on the ability to participate in once-enjoyed activities. Many older people face the reality of not being able to get around as easily as they once did. The stress and fear of being home bound adds to their disappointment. They find themselves unable to get out and shop. Small tasks as getting to the Post Office for stamps and to mail presents can seem overwhelming. The “let down’ after - While the holidays often bring more family and friends interaction they also can accentuate the loneliness afterwards. Many seniors who are busy with family and friend events over the holiday once again find themselves alone. Now the loneliness seems worse when compared to the flurry of activity over the holidays. What Can You Do? The following strategies can be useful in helping anyone not just seniors to get around potential sources of the “holiday blues”: Adjust the expectations - Include your loved ones in the planning and preparation of the events for the season. They will feel involved and really “planning” is half the fun. For example, if you think the perfect family get-together won’t be a part of this year’s holidays, keeping this realistic assumption in mind can help avoid frustration and disappointment. Limit predictable sources of stress - If the annual trappings of shopping, decorating, cooking and attending social events risks becoming overwhelming and stressful, limit these activities. Get together with friends and family members - As much as possible, share the holidays with friends and family members in person, as well as by phone, e-mail, and mail. The holiday season is also a good time to contact someone you have not heard from for awhile. For those who have recently suffered the loss of someone especially close, spend time with special friends and family with whom you can reminisce and share stories and cherished memories about your loved one. REMINDER: for seniors suffering from hearing loss, mobility problems, or minor dementia limit the number of guests at one time; instead ask family to make special one to one visits. This will eliminate the stress of a crowd and create a more special remembrance Attend holiday community events - Most communities offer special events during the holidays, such as theatrical and orchestral performances, that can be enjoyable to look forward to and to attend. Join a social group - Feelings of loneliness and isolation can often be remedied by participating in activities with others. This can also help in opening up the potential for making new friends. You might consider looking into groups affiliated with your local church, museum, library or community center. Engage in volunteer activity - Helping others is a pretty foolproof method of making the holidays feel more meaningful. There are many volunteer organizations that need extra help during this time of year. Enjoy activities that are free - Financial strain can be the cause of added stress during the holidays; however, there are many ways of enjoying the season that are free, including driving or walking around to admire holiday decorations, going window shopping without buying, making a snowman with children, and attending free concerts. Don’t drink too much - Many of the season’s parties and social gatherings include alcohol. Be aware that excessive drinking will only increase feelings of overwhelm or depression. Alcohol is NOT an antidepressant and, in fact, often worsens mood. Seek new, enjoyable ways of getting physical exercise - Exercising, for example, aerobics, walking, skiing, hiking, yoga, or swimming can help burn away a lot of stress as well as the extra calories of holiday meals. Adopt a pet - Many have found that assuming the responsibility of caring for and loving a pet brings new joy and companionship into their lives. Remember that life brings changes - As families change and grow, traditions often need to adapt to the new configurations. While you can hold onto certain family rituals, for instance, a certain holiday activity or preparing a long-cherished family recipe, some traditions, such as everyone gathering at your house, may not be possible this year. Each holiday season is different and can be enjoyed in its own way. Don’t set yourself up for disappointment by comparing this year’s holiday season with the “good ol’ days.” Spend time with supporting people - In all of the ways listed above - as well as any other opportunities you can think of that specifically apply to your life or an older person in your life - this holiday season when searching for a meaningful gift for an older family member or friend consider the “Gift of your Time”. It cannot be emphasized enough how important it can be to spend the holiday season in the company of supportive and caring people. You will receive a precious gift in return!
 
The Q & A Times Journal accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.Materials will not be returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Thank you.
 
Wildcard SSL Certificates