What to Do If Your Elderly Parent's Caregiver Isn't Available During the Holidays

Holidays are stressful. Schedules change, work functions increase, and guests arrive. No matter how enjoyable, the holidays can leave people exhausted. Learning that an elderly parent's caregiver can't work during the holidays only adds to holiday stress.

What do families do when this happens? Are there ways to prevent last-minute schedule changes?

Senior Helpers Elmira-Ithaca understands the stress a change in caregivers around the holidays can create for elderly parents and their families. We offer the following tips to minimize disruptions and make the holidays as stress-free as possible.

Ask for Help

If siblings are coming for the holidays, ask them to help. Set up a schedule so family members can pick times that work for them. Consider asking extended family that lives in the area if they have an hour or two during the holidays to help with care. Depending on the required level of care, incorporate elderly parents into holiday plans such as looking at Christmas lights.

Negotiate

Caregivers may not be available on December 24th or 25, but they can provide care on other days. They may be willing to work a few hours on a holiday, especially if the pay is at least time and a half. Remember, caregivers have families too. Showing appreciation for their caring for loved ones by paying more can greatly increase their willingness to work on holidays.

Flexibility can help reduce stress. Adjusting schedules or working half days may be enough to accommodate uncovered hours. Caring for loved ones doesn't mean sitting indoors. Many seniors may have mobility issues, but that doesn't mean they can't participate in holiday activities. Set up a puzzle that everyone can work on or watch Christmas movies with elderly parents instead of at home.

Have a Backup

Know what community resources are available during the holidays. Adult daycare centers may have openings to help cover some hours of care. Faith-based organizations may have resources for seniors needing care. Agencies such as Senior Helpers offer holiday care for people in Elmira, Ithaca, Corning, Bath, and Watkins Glen.

Check with local providers before the holidays to determine what services are available. The information can ensure a viable backup plan if a caregiver is unavailable during the holidays.

Prepare for Transition Care

Using multiple caregivers can be stressful for senior parents, especially if they suffer from Alzheimer's or dementia. New faces and new routines can increase agitation and trigger outbursts. Prepare written documentation that can be given to each caregiver to minimize disruptions. Include information on the following:

Medical History

Outline the health issues that senior loved ones may have. Include any medications or therapies, including the dosage and frequency.

Personal History

Be sure to include the usual statistics, such as date of birth and information on likes and dislikes. Discuss what daily activities seniors may need help with, such as meal preparation or doing laundry.

Triggers

Dementia and Alzheimer's patients have triggers that increase agitation. Providing a list of activities or topics that can trigger challenging behavior can reduce the trauma of a new caregiver. Include a list of calming activities that can help redirect a parent if triggered.

Find Experienced Caregivers

Senior Helpers Elmira-Ithaca has experienced caregivers who offer companionship and in-home care for elderly parents or those suffering from Alzheimer's. The staff is available for long- and short-term care. Contact us for more information on how we can help this holiday season.