Holiday Tips for Seniors—More Happy, Less Stress!

The 2022 holidays are upon us! Already stressed? Relax and take a moment to breathe deeply and read on–Residences Senior Living has created a helpful series of Senior Tips to take you successfully through the season.  Our goal is like yours—to make the holidays safe, sane, and enjoyable, whether you’re a senior yourself or family member caregiver.

Holiday Countdown: Feeling Anxious or Tense?
Keep Calm and Carry On!  Good advice from Queen Elizabeth herself, who obviously practiced what she preached! Take another deep breath, just to S-L-O-W   D-O-W-N and believe you can!  How many times do we have to be told to “keep it simple” when holidays approach? The answer is, as many times as it takes to respond in easy, simple ways when feeling overwhelmed. In the spirit of simplicity, we’re going to offer just a few coping measures to help you keep your calm. Really, these are just about all anyone needs—ready, set go S-L-O-W:

  • G-R-I-N and you’ll bear it! Smiles lower your heart rate and reduce stress. We’re not even asking you to laugh, just smile. What makes you smile? Find funny movies or television shows. Sit back, think about a silly thing that happened once. Call a friend or relative who always makes you S-M-I-L-E.
  • S-T-R-E-T-C-H your muscles. You know this, but forget to do it. So here’s a new approach to stretching your muscles, especially for the season. It’s the holidays—give yourself a big hug! Seriously, when you reach around yourself, the motion relieves upper back tension and soreness. And you deserve the love!
  • W-A-L-K off worries. No time or inclination to go outside today? Is it already dark because it’s Winter? No worries! Even a lap around the house can make a difference. Walking awakens the mind/body connection and can reduce stress. We know this, too!

That’s it—just three tips to help you carry on! Easy! Do you think Queen Elizabeth gave herself hugs very often?? That’s a picture worth a smile!

Next in Our Series of Senior Tips for the Holidays:

Hacks to Reduce Travel Stress

We’re serious about health and safety for seniors during holiday travel. There’s time to prepare and think about the longer-than-usual trips that often occur during the holiday season. But don’t delay, start today:

  • Ask your physician for advice before boarding planes, trains, or long automobile trips. Some health conditions may require extra care and attention to stretching, moving about, restroom breaks, even healthy snacks if the trip is long in duration.
  • It’s cool to use an electric scooter and your grandkids will love it! It’s only temporary during your trip, but who knows, you may learn to love it, too! (Put it on your Santa Wishlist!)
  • Don’t forget your handicap placard—you’ll be closer to the door! That goes for shopping trips, too, and restaurants!
  • Carry-on bags or luggage are important preparedness, whether on a plane or train, or in a car. That’s the place to make sure your medications and any items used to assist you daily are safe and sound—where you’re in control and not relying on transportation personnel. Count them all “valuables!”
  • Keep hydrated, keep water available! Traveling in closed close quarters requires more attention to drinking water. Emphasis on water! While coffee and tea are soothing, it’s important to be mindful of caffeine intake–that also depletes the water in our system. Opt for de-caf and herbal refreshments. Yes, you’ll need more restroom breaks—but if not, it’s a signal you aren’t taking in enough liquid nourishment.
  • Allow extra time for frequent restroom stops when traveling by automobile. You’ll need time for stretch breaks, too, to ensure and maintain good circulation.
  • REST AND RELAX WHEN YOU REACH YOUR DESTINATION! Traveling is work, even when you’re a passenger! Rest before resuming activity! Kick your feet up—recliners can be your friend. Know your limits, there is no reason to push beyond. 
  • Time for the return trip home? Repeat—all of the above!!

SENIOR TIPS for the HOLIDAYS COMING ATTRACTION:

 Enjoy your holiday Meals and Treats with Planning, Not Guilt!

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