How to Cope With Your First Holiday Season Living Alone

Holiday seasons are moments of excitement with family and friends enjoying themselves to the fullest. But the case is different for the seniors who newly live alone due to losing a spouse or moving out of children. They may wonder who will care for them and how to cope this holiday season now that it’s their first holiday season living alone, considering they're not used to it.

Ways to Help them Cope with their First Holiday Season Living Alone

1. Communicating More

In-person visits are the ultimate way to connect with loved ones, but communication should be a priority when visits aren't possible and when it’s their first holiday season living alone. It helps raise the seniors' spirits, reduces boredom, and keeps them in touch with their loved ones despite the distance. They can video call on Skype or talk on the phone several days a week or even daily. If they are on Facebook, they can catch up with friends too.

If seniors have medical conditions, they should share their progress with their loved ones, which is important in case of an emergency. Communicating constantly with friends and family is also good for their mental health.

2. Exploring Hobbies and Areas of Interest

Getting active is a great way to cope while living alone, and the best way is for seniors to do what they love. If they haven't been involved in their areas of interest, this is the time to awaken them. Hobbies allow seniors in Tulsa, McAlester, Broken Arrow, or Sand Springs to meet others with similar interests. For instance, avid readers can join a local book club in their area, and if they like knitting, they can join local knitting or sewing circles.

To rekindle or learn new hobbies, they should join adult classes and meet other like-minded individuals. Experts in a hobby or an area of interest can teach the rest.

3. Getting Involved With Social Interaction Through Local Organizations

With the help of local organizations, seniors can find like-minded people, make new friends, and get involved in group activities. These organizations include temples, churches, mosques, and local senior centers. Social interactions help them avoid loneliness and its effects.

While their loved ones may be away, social interactions enhance friendly and much-needed conversations. This helps them bounce back from the loneliness that builds up when left alone.

4. Flowing with the Holiday Spirit

It's a holiday already, so seniors shouldn't allow boredom and loneliness. They can leave the house and walk in their neighborhood while watching the conspicuous holiday lights. Otherwise, if at home, they can invite fellow seniors and make cheer by baking some cookies, enjoying some classical music, or watching holiday movies.

Get Senior In-House Help

Coping during this holiday season can be difficult, especially for seniors’ first holiday season living alone. Hiring a caregiver can help them cope during the holiday season. If you have a senior in Tulsa, McAlester, Broken Arrow, or Sand Springs, Senior Helpers Tulsa is ready to offer help that suits their needs. From meal preparations to running errands to health care for chronic diseases, safety evaluations, and more. Our professional and caring caregivers will ensure that seniors are safe. Contact us today to schedule an in-house assessment as we begin this journey together.