#holidays

Enjoy the Fullness of the Season with Mindful Eating

Holiday dinner table with multiple serving dishes of food.

It is just accepted that with the holidays comes celebrations, resulting weight gain.  Americans gain 1.1 pounds on average from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. While this may not seem like much, over time, this accumulation can be significant.  Most associate the holidays with high fat and carbohydrate-dense foods, along with alcohol, which are major contributors to holiday weight gain. Overindulgence is seen as part of the holiday celebration; therefore, many fall into the trap of overeating at parties and family gatherings. Practicing a mindful approach to eating may increase enjoyment of the season without an increase in our waistlines.

Mindful eating is being aware of the present moment when eating, paying attention to physical and emotional sensations such as aroma, flavor, warmth and contentment. The approach of mindful eating promotes healthy eating behaviors, including a better awareness of food choices and portion sizes, along with recognition of hunger and satiety cues. Here are some tips to help practice mindful eating during the holiday season:

  1. Practice Gratitude. Before eating, take a moment to think about where the food came from and the people that helped prepare it. This shifts the focus from indulging to appreciating and from food to friends and loved ones.
  2. Plan Your Plate. Take a moment to survey the table and see what options are available. What foods are most appealing? Choose vegetables, fruits, and proteins first, as these foods are more filling and provide essential nutrients the body truly hungers for.  If you are preparing food, consider healthier options of holiday foods.  Some favorite recipes can be modified to lower the sugar and fat. It is also okay to enjoy traditional favorite treats, but in small amounts, savoring the flavor and the memories that go with it. Choose intentionally, not by impulse.
  3. Take Breaks. Try putting the fork down or taking a sip of water between bites of food. Pausing between bites can allow the body’s satiety cues to reach the brain. Dinner conversation helps slow down eating and allows the opportunity to reconnect with others we may not see throughout the year. Before dessert, take 10 minutes to clear dishes or circulate among the other guests, as this gets our bodies moving and allows time to assess our hunger.
  4. Be Present. Take time to savor the food and the atmosphere. Think about the appearance, smell, flavor, and texture in each bite. Does the food bring back fond memories? Listen to the body. Assess feelings of hunger or fullness. Know that it is better to stop at a comfortable level of satiety than to feel overstuffed after cleaning an overfull plate.
  5. Avoid Distractions. Television or conversation can decrease awareness of how much you are eating. Distractions can lead to continued eating just because food is there. Enjoy the company, but don’t indulge in mindless grazing around the table. Instead, converse over a game or while taking a walk to view the holiday decorations.

With these tips you can shift your focus from indulging to gratitude! Practice mindful eating this season to enjoy the holiday to all of its fullness without overfilling your plate!

Written by: Jennifer Little, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences and Karissa Welte, Dietetic Intern, OSU Extension, Hancock County

Reviewed by: Shari Gallup, Assistant Professor, Family and Consumer Sciences, OSU Extension, Licking County

Food Safety While Gift Giving for the Holiday Season

Stacked holiday gifts.

As the holiday season approaches, it’s a great time to share gifts with your loved ones. If you’re considering giving the gift of food, there are many options, including subscription boxes, home-delivered groceries, and homemade treats. However, when sending food gifts, it’s important to prioritize food safety to keep your loved ones safe.

The most crucial step when giving food as a gift is to communicate with the recipient.

  • Ask about any food allergies or aversions they may have.
  • Find out if they will be home when the food is delivered so they can refrigerate it promptly. Perishable items or cooked meals can cause food poisoning if left out for more than 2 hours. Bacteria that lead to food borne illnesses multiply rapidly when food is in the “danger zone,” which is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C).
  • Let them know how the food should arrive. Perishable items should arrive frozen, partially frozen with visible ice crystals, or at least at refrigerator temperature (40°F (4°C) or below when measured with a food thermometer). If the food arrives above 40°F (4°C), it should be discarded.
  • Ensure they understand how to store the food. All perishable items should be placed in the refrigerator or freezer as soon as possible.
  • Consider providing safety tips for preparing and cooking the food, as well as advice on storing leftovers.

When gifting homemade canned goods, it’s essential to follow proper guidelines. Adhere to Cottage Food laws when gifting home-canned items. A Cottage Food Operation refers to a person producing non-hazardous food items in their home, such as baked goods, jams, jellies, and fruit butter. Home-canned foods are items that someone has canned for their family’s consumption. It is not advisable to share foods that do not appear on the Cottage Food list. Home-canned foods can carry risks, such as botulism, a severe illness caused by a toxin produced in improperly canned items.

There are many non-perishable food items that are a great option for gifts. Below are some low-risk food gift ideas and recipes you may want to try.

Gift from the Kitchen Recipes

As the holiday season approaches, gifting food can be a delightful option, but it’s important to prioritize food safety. Make sure to follow the tips above to keep your family and friends safe this holiday season.

Author: Megan Taylor, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences/4-H Youth Development, Union County

Reviewer: Jennifer Little, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Hancock County 

Protecting Your Peace this Holiday Season

 

Family of all ages at dinner table laughing.

The holidays are often considered a time of joy, gatherings with friends and family, and festive cheer. However, the pressures of gift-giving, social events, and expectations can sometimes take a toll on your mental health and steal the joy of the holiday season. According to the American Psychiatric Association, almost 9 in 10 adults report concerns about stress during the holiday season.

If you’re experiencing increased stress or struggling with your mental health during the holidays, know that you are not alone. It is common to feel a mix of emotions during this time. Here are some tips to help you protect your peace this holiday season.

  1. Set realistic expectations and embrace imperfection – Holidays often highlight the gap between expectations and reality. Whether it’s the pressure to plan a holiday party, a forgotten gift, or trying to meet everyone’s needs, remind yourself that no celebration is truly perfect. Focus on connection and enjoyment and creating meaningful moments over perfect events.
  2. Family time that works – Families can be both a source of joy and stress during the holidays. As you prepare to spend extended time with your immediate and extended family, prioritize your mental health. Give yourself permission to miss some events and not engage in every conversation. When possible, limit your time or take a break from the gathering by going for a walk, calling someone you enjoy talking to, or spending time alone.
  3. Practice self-care – it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season and forget to look after yourself. Take time for your favorite activities, maintain your routine, get enough sleep, and say “no” to extra commitments. Scheduling time each day to read, meditate, or go for a walk improves your sense of well-being and reduces stress.
  4. Ask for help – if you know that this time of year can be difficult, make a plan to protect your peace. Lean on your safe friends and family and talk to your primary care provider or mental health provider. If you are having mental health crises, call or text 988 – Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Your mental health and peace are just as important as your physical health. Take time to find your peace amid the hustle and bustle in order to enjoy a balanced and fulfilling holiday season.

Written by: Laura Halladay, Family and Consumer Sciences Program Specialist, Ohio State University Extension

Reviewed by: Kate Shumaker, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Holmes County

Go Green This Holiday Season

A "Happy Holidays" gift tag on a naturally wrapped gift

The holidays bring many opportunities to “go green” and think about the impact our traditions and activities can have on our environment. Being green doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive, but it often means taking a little extra time to be intentional. Here are four ways to go green over the holidays:

1. Gift Giving
During the holiday season, there is often increased pressure to purchase items that you might normally skip at other times of the year. The social pressure to buy gifts, cards, and miscellaneous “stuff” fuels consumerism and waste. Try to avoid any gifts you purchase from ending up in the landfill. Consider gifting an experience, a homemade consumable product (like bath products or food), a second-hand item, or an eco-friendly product like Swedish dishcloths, reusable water bottles, or glass soap dispensers.

2. Product Packaging
When you purchase an item this holiday season, consider the packaging and challenge yourself to eliminate waste. It turns out, plastic packaging accounts for nearly half of all plastic waste globally, and much of it is thrown away within just a few minutes of its first use. For example, gift cards are popular, but the plastic cards themselves are difficult to reuse or recycle. Go old-school and give cash or checks as a sustainable alternative.

Pink bath salts in a glass mason jar.

3. Gift Wrap
Did you know that in the United States, an additional five million tons of waste is generated over Christmas, four million of which is wrapping paper and shopping bags? Newspaper, butcher paper, reusable boxes, metal tins, and paper gift bags are creative and sustainable ideas for gift wrap. Choosing these materials helps to keep traditional gift wrap, bows, and ribbons from ending up in the landfill.

4. Holiday Traditions
Holiday cards, party invitations, decorations, hosting, and food can take a serious toll on our environment. Large gatherings can mean single-use plates, utensils, cups, and napkins. Avoid or reduce this waste by choosing reusable products. Uneaten food becomes food waste, so use the interactive guest-imator to plan how much food you really need at your gathering. Finally, if you decorate with a live tree, look for opportunities to reuse or recycle your tree and keep it out of the garbage. Your tree can be used for mulch, to protect fish in lakes, or to provide shelter for birds.

Looking for more green ideas? Visit the OSU Extension Sustainability website to find tip sheets, videos, and a 3-D Sustainable Home Tour.

Written by Laura Stanton, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, OSU Extension, Warren County. Email: stanton.60@osu.edu.

Reviewed by Jenny Lobb, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, OSU Extension, Franklin County.

References:

Garber, M. (2012, December 22). Wrappers’ delight: A brief history of wrapping paper. The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2012/12/wrappers-delight-a-brief-history-of-wrapping-paper/266599

Mansfield, S. (2022, December 22). Green your holiday this season. United States Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.gov/perspectives/green-your-holiday-season

The National Christmas Tree Association (n.d). How to recycle and give real Christmas trees a second life. https://realchristmastrees.org/all-about-trees/how-to-recycle

Stanton, L. M. (2022, July 19). It’s time to rethink packaging and recycling. Ohio State University Extension. https://livehealthyosu.com/2022/07/19/its-time-to-rethink-packaging-and-recycling

Zee, G. (2022, December 7). Plastic gift cards on climate advocates’ “naughty list” this Christmas. ABC News. https://abc13.com/plastic-gift-cards-christmas-gifts-pvc-toxic/12534016

Photo Credits:
Natural wrapping image by rawpixel.com.
Mason jar with bath salts image by Victoria Emerson, pexels.com

Holiday Shopping Tips and Spending Triggers!

Le the shopping begin sign

The holiday marketing blitz is on!  Festive commercials, emails and text messages may put you in the holiday spirit but also affects your holiday budget.  The continuous exposure to festive commercials, fantastic bargains or limited-edition gifts encourages you to spend money.

Marketing techniques trigger spending.  During the holidays, retailers will group items together to create overspending.  For example, a sweater will have a scarf displayed by it creating the need to buy both the sweater and the scarf.  An electronic item, a television for example will have two models displayed beside each other.  One television is a great model and the second one is superior and 30% more in cost.  Often shoppers spend the additional 30% without realizing this is a spending trigger.  This will quickly ruin your holiday budget.  Be aware of this additional holiday triggers:

  • Holiday music plays in the stores while you shop.
  • Seasonal scents
  • Gift sets
  • Mark up prices and offer holiday coupons.
  • “Back in stock”
  • Bulk pricing – 2 for 1 deal 

No matter which holidays you celebrate many feel pressured to make them perfect.  Social media images of picture-perfect holidays can create unrealistic expectations that are impossible to live up to. It’s important to focus on what’s important to you and your family. Your decorations, your traditions, and your happiness are more important than photos posted on social media sites.

Make a list-check it twice. Create a holiday spending list.  Include gifts, food, and holiday baking in your spending plan.  Black Friday and Cyber Monday also may be spending triggers.  Often, we forget we are buying gifts and will purchase items for ourselves.  Stick to your gift list.

To effectively manage your money this holiday season, unsubscribe from marketing emails and text messages and be aware of holiday ad triggers. Nothing is a bargain if you do not need it, or it was not on the list. Have a wonderful holiday season!

Written by:

 Beth Stefura, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, OSU Extension Mahoning County, stefura.2@osu.ed

Reviewed by: Margaret Jenkins, Assistant Professor, Family and Consumer Sciences, OSU Extension Clermont County, jenkins.188@osu.edu

References

Dealing With Holiday Depression and Stress – Cleveland Clinic

Holiday Gatherings With Family: Tips for Holiday Stress and Anxiety (webmd.com)

Compulsive Spending: What You Need to Know | Psychology Today

https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/blog/five-step-spending-plan-avoid-holiday-debt/

Celebrating Groundhog Day S.M.A.R.T.ly

 

As we get ready to surround our televisions to celebrate a famous groundhog who tells us when the next season will arrive, have

Man holding Groundhog

you ever wondered why? As the seasons change from winter to spring, Groundhog Day allows each of us to turn over a new leaf and transition with whatever news the groundhog brings. So, whether you listen to Buckeye Chuck or Punxsutawney Phil’s prediction this year, take some time to come out of hibernation and set goals for the next season no matter how soon or far away it may seem.

Groundhog Day to many is a silly and fun holiday; however, it has ancient origins. February second marks the mid-point between Halloween and Mayday, which historically, was a major festival marking the changing of seasons. In a German tradition, badgers made these types of seasonal predictions, letting people know when to expect the next season. Folklorist Stephen Wick from the American Folklife Center and Veterans History Project found that with immigration, the first account of a modern American Groundhog Day ritual happened on February 2, 1840. At this event, a Pennsylvanian storekeeper noted that the groundhog coming out of hibernation would determine 40 more days of winter or an early spring.

Thinking about how the holiday took shape helps to re-frame the reason for the season or seasons depending on what the groundhog says. As we take this time to transition, setting intentional goals as we all come out of hibernation can be crucial to personal and professional growth in the next season of our lives.

SMART Goals: Specific, Measurable Attainable, Relevant, and Time-Bound

When looking forward and thinking about the next season, setting goals is an important first step. S.M.A.R.T. goals are a popular approach to goal setting that takes into consideration, what you are doing, how long you plan to take, and helps ensure you will be successful.

In the next season, establish your goals S.M.A.R. T. by making them…

  • Specific : What needs to be accomplished?
    • What will the new season bring for you and your loved ones? Make sure the goal is for something you want or need to accomplish. The University of California suggests that it serves as a “mission statement for your goal.”  
  • Measurable: How will the goal be successfully completed?
    • As you plan a goal for the new season, the measurement should provide you with information. No matter what type of information you learn, setting measurable milestones along the way can ensure goal making success.
  • Attainable: Can I do this?
    • As you consider, can I do this, think about your abilities and whose help you may need.
  • Relevant: Is this something that needs to happen now?
    • In this next season, think about the goal and when it needs to happen.
  • Time-Bound: Can this goal be achieved in the specified time frame?
    • Setting a time for the goal to be achieved by is important. Making a time-bound goal helps hold you accountable in this new season.

As we come out of hibernation and transition to a new season, set a S.M.A.R.T goal for the next period in your life. While celebrating Groundhog Day this year, include time to set new goals for the new season; however, quickly or slowly it arrives! We would love to hear what your S.M.A.R.T. goal is or will be!

Sources:

Bailey, Ryan. Goal Setting and Action Planning for Health Behavior Change. Am J Lifestyle Med. 2017 Sep 13;13(6):615-618. From https://doi.org/10.1177%2F1559827617729634

Bringing people together from all over the World: Groundhog Day. Image. The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club. https://www.groundhog.org/legend-and-lore

SMART Goals: A How to Guide. University of California. (n.d.). Retrieved January 30, 2023, from https://www.ucop.edu/local-human-resources/_files/performance-appraisal/How%20to%20write%20SMART%20Goals%20v2.pdf

Set SMART Goals. The University of Minnesota. (n.d.). Retrieved January 30, 2023m from https://effectiveu.umn.edu/tips/smartgoals

Winick, Stephen. Groundhog Day: Ancient Origins of a Modern Celebration. (February 1,2022). Retrieved January 30, 2023, from https://blogs.loc.gov/folklife/2022/02/groundhog-day-ancient-origins-of-a-modern-celebration/

Author: Ryan Kline, Extension Educator, Ohio State University Extension, 4-H Youth Development/Family and Consumer Sciences, Ross County, kline.375@osu.edu.

Reviewed by: Misty Harmon, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Perry County, harmon.416@osu.edu.

The Best Gift to Give Yourself This Holiday Season

A holiday tree with lights

The holiday season is a magical time of year, yet for many, the holidays bring stress, anxiety, conflict and even heartache.   Often stress starts at Thanksgiving and runs through the New Year.    Holiday triggers, can create internal and external forces influencing our mind and body, creating stress and anxiety during the holiday season.    Give yourself the gift of a stress-free holiday by being aware of common holiday triggers and learning ways to cope with holiday stress.

 Be aware of these common holiday triggers:

  • Increased expectations:  Choosing which family member’s gatherings to attend after years of unresolved conflict and finding ways to dodge the uncomfortable conversations at the holiday table is stressful.  We often feel pressured to meet the expectations of others.
  • Financial strain:  Wanting to create the perfect holiday experience comes with a price tag that affects our finances often into the New Year.
  • Time management concerns:  Balancing work, family, friends, and additional commitments is more challenging than ever this time of year!
  • Eating concerns:  For those with any kind of negative relationship with food the holiday focus on food is triggering. The food pushers who do not take no for an answer when offering food is overwhelming.  Eat mindfully, have a game plan and if necessary, remind your family that your eating habits are not up for discussion.

Ways to Cope with Holiday Stress:

  • Connect with those you trust and are comfortable with.  A support system is always important, especially this time of year.
  • Practice empathy and compassion for yourself and others. Give yourself grace when you need it, remember everyone has their own struggles.
  • Try not to set unrealistic expectations of yourself.  Establish boundaries and do not be afraid to say no.  Create a holiday spending plan.
  • Set a schedule for shopping, cooking and holiday activities.  Make a to-do list helps visualize and manage your time.
  • Continue healthy habits.  It is alright to indulge in some of the holiday treats,  remember to keep your physical health a priority.
  • Adopt one or two mindful exercise that work for you (deep breathing, visualization, stretching).

Be kind to yourself this holiday.  Practice self-compassion.  Spend time with your favorite people, books, hobbies, movies and say “no” to anything that does not make you happier.    Have a wonderful stress-free holiday!

Written by: Beth Stefura, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Mahoning County, stefura.2@osu.edu

Reviewed by: Shari Gallup, Assistant Professor, Ohio State University Extension, Licking County, gallup.1@osu.edu

References:

Holiday Depression Triggers What Causes Holiday Blues? (webmd.com)

10 Common Holiday Stresses and How to Cope With Them | Psychology Today

Home for the Holidays – Get Ready

The holidays were always a big event in my family with lots of food, fun and family togetherness. I never realized how much time and effort it took my parents to get ready for the holidays until I had a family of my own. The weeks leading up to the holidays can be stressful, so here are three simple ideas I do to help prepare and I hope it helps you too.

A cluttered holiday table

Declutter and Clean

Over the course of a year, we gather a lot of junk that takes up space. Before cleaning, consider purging instead of jumping right into cleaning. During November, I take time each day (only 20 minutes a day) to declutter my desk, small closets, and even the refrigerator to make room for holiday foods. Seeing a clean space feels very motivating! Once decluttering is done, let the cleaning begin! You don’t have to tackle everything but basis like dusting, vacuuming, and cleaning the toilets can be done in a short amount of time.

In the Kitchen

The kitchen usually becomes more important during the holidays since we spend time baking and cooking. If you will be preparing this holiday season, consider making a menu, then create a list of everything you need before making a trip to the grocery store, saving both time and money. Check your cupboards to see what items you already have! For more tips on planning for the holidays, here is a great, 30-minute webinar.

Decorating Main Spaces

Finally, it’s time to decorate! I tend to feel overwhelmed with this task and began decorating only the main living and dining areas. The bedrooms usually get a holiday throw pillow or blanket and a candle. In the kitchen I use seasonal dish towels and placemats. And of course, my holiday wreath on the front door!

The weeks ahead can be hectic. Following these simple tips and being mindful of your time beforehand can help ensure that you will be able to enjoy your family time together.

Written by Shari Gallup, Assistant Professor, Ohio State University Extension, Licking County, gallup.1@osu.edu

Reviewed by, Beth Stefura, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Mahoning County, Stefura.2@osu.edu

Sources:

Barledge, L., Gallup, S., Lowe, J. (2022). Webinar. Set the Table: Plan for Both Wellness and Savings. Webinar: https://go.osu.edu/giftsweb2.

Carter, S. (2017).  Stretch Your Time and Money This Thanksgiving. https://livehealthyosu.com/2017/11/13/stretch-your-time-and-money-this-thanksgiving/

Center for Disease Control. https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/stress-coping/cope-with-stress/

Marrison. E. (2021). Homemade Cleaners: Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise. https://livehealthyosu.com/2021/11/01/homemade-cleaners-healthy-wealthy-wise/

The Only Constant is Change

With the holidays around the corner, I have been thinking about all the things that have changed over the years. When I was a kid, we went to my grandparents’ house on Christmas Eve and celebrated with my aunts, uncles, and cousins. When my grandparents moved in to an apartment, the holidays were divided amongst my aunts. As my generation grew and started having children, it became too much to coordinate, so we no longer get together for Christmas with my extended family. We have continued to gather for Thanksgiving, though.

Baking Cookies, Christmas Baking, Child'S Hand, Cut Out
Child making cut out cookies

Even as my own kids have grown, our traditions have changed. We used to go to their great-grandpa’s house and then my aunt’s on Christmas Eve. Christmas Day, we opened presents at our house, then went to my parent’s house to open presents and eat with my brother and his family. Finally, we concluded with Christmas evening at their other grandparents’ house with their aunt and uncle. Now, my parent’s go to Florida for the winter, so we no longer celebrate the holidays with my family. While the slower pace on Christmas Day is nice, I miss seeing my parents and my brother and his family for Christmas.

While I do miss some of the traditions of the past, I try not to focus on how things “used” to be, but instead seek to make new traditions that suit the changes in our family. My kids, young adults now, have school or college, work, friends, etc. to juggle along with the “commitments” of the holidays. I could not be happier that they have grown in to happy, healthy, productive, well-adjusted adults, as I had always hoped; however, I would be lying if I said I don’t sometimes miss the time when their world revolved around our family. I try to be supportive and understanding, which is easier to do, so long as I remember that this is the cycle of life.

Friends, Celebration, Dinner, Table, Meal, Food, White
Friends celebrating with a meal

As I look to the future, I am mostly excited for what is to come. I will miss my daughter when she goes off to college, just as I miss(ed) her brothers when they left. I am looking forward to seeing my young adult children spread their wings and make their way in the world. I will be cheering them on all the way and I will be here to support them as they make new traditions in their own lives. Hopefully, I will be included in many of those traditions. As they go out in to the world, I am sure my husband and I will make some new traditions for ourselves as well. Traditions serve many purposes, including:

  1. An anxiety buffer– From reciting blessings to raising a glass to make a toast, holiday traditions are replete with rituals which can act as a buffer against anxiety by making our world a more predictable place.
  2. Happy meals– The long hours spent in the kitchen and the dining room during the preparation and consumption of holiday meals serve some of the same social functions as the hearths of our early ancestors. Sharing a ceremonial meal symbolizes community, brings the entire family together around the table, and smooths the way for conversation and connection.
  3. Sharing is caring– Anthropologists have noted that among many societies ritualized gift-giving plays a crucial role in maintaining social ties by creating networks of reciprocal relationships.
  4. The stuff family is made of– The most important function of holiday rituals is their role in maintaining and strengthening family ties.

My kids are mostly grown now, and hopefully the traditions and rituals we have had over the years and ones yet to come, will be looked upon fondly by them, just as I look back with fond remembrance of the traditions of my childhood and those of raising my own children.

Join us Friday, December 17th at 12:00 pm for a 30-minute webinar on Why Traditions are Important Today. The webinar is free, but registration is required at go.osu.edu/playweb.

Written by: Misty Harmon, OSU Extension Educator, Perry County, harmon.416@osu.edu

Reviewed by: Michelle Treber, OSU Extension Educator, Pickaway County, treber.1@osu.edu

Holiday Concerns for Older Adults

For many, the holidays are filled with celebrations and festivities with family and friends, but it can be a worrisome time for those who have difficulty getting around, or are confined to their homes. Older adults might choose to forego family celebrations and festivities for fear of falling or being a burden on family members. By skipping family functions, older adults may have an increased feeling of loneliness and isolation during the holidays.

family during the holidays

Unfortunately a day out with an older adult cannot be spontaneous. However, with a little pre-planning and modifications, holiday traditions and activities can be safe for older family members. This may require some changes to family plans, but having senior family members with you during the holidays is well worth the adjustments.

In order to make celebrations suitable for every family member, here are some things to consider during the planning process:

  • How far can the person travel?
  • Are the costs affordable to someone on a limited budget?
  • How much walking is involved?  Are there hills or other obstacles that would make it hard to navigate?
  • Is there wheelchair access?
  • Is there parking nearby?
  • Are restrooms easily accessible?
  • Are there benches or chairs that can be used?

Planning what you need to take with you is also important. Be prepared for the unexpected. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

  • Make sure you have all the medications needed. Take an extended supply, just in case you are still out when the next dose is due.
  • Have clothing appropriate for the weather and the outing. Comfortable shoes and warm weather clothes are important.
  • Bring some snacks and plenty of water.

Once you get to the activity, the next step is to be alert to any hazards or problems that might occur. Holidays are a joyful time of year meant for get-togethers, memories, and a touch of nostalgia. However, the holiday season can be one of the most dangerous times for older persons. For example:

  • Holiday decorations may affect the ability of your loved ones to move freely throughout the home. Just because you can easily navigate the extra decorations, doesn’t mean that your loved one will.
  • Look for extension cords or floor rugs that can lead to a fall.
  • Make sure that walkways are clear of ice and snow.

Additional considerations are needed for family members living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. For instance, consider the effect of too much clutter: Too many lights, music and decorations can be overwhelming. The Alzheimer’s Organization provides additional tips on how to help family members with dementia enjoy the holidays. In addition, the Healthy Aging Network Telecast on Managing Family Members with Dementia Over the Holiday Season provides additional tips to help you and your family.

The holidays give older adults something to look forward to, provides a stimulating change of scenery, and create pleasant memories to carry with them. So, even though it may take a little extra planning and work, involving your older family members in holiday celebrations can improve the meaning of the holiday season.

Written by: Kathy Tutt, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, OSU Extension Clark County, tutt.19@osu.edu

Reviewed by: Michelle Treber, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, OSU Extension Pickaway County

Sources:

Reducing Loneliness: How to Help Seniors During the Holidays, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20047715