Getting the right support to enjoy the festive season

Getting support from aged care service providers, like Life without Barriers, can be really beneficial during these difficult periods.

Whatever the situation, it’s important to recognise that this holiday period can be hard, but there is support available. Whether you or a loved one is combating loneliness, anxiety or physical limitations, the first step is reaching out and asking for help.

Director of Aged Care at Life Without Barriers, Brendan Smith, says, “Being brave and talking to someone you know, like your GP (General Practitioner), to explain that things aren’t quite right is an important step in the right direction.”

“Especially after such a tough year, it’s important to act early and get support before it feels out of control.”

One of the big contributors to stress during the festive period is Christmas shopping. With so many people around, it can feel a little overwhelming.

Mr Smith advises that an easy way to help reduce stress in shopping centres is to try shopping earlier in the day.

“Changing your usual routine and getting to the shops bright and early before it’s too busy can really help stress levels,” explains Mr Smith. 

“Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get there so you don’t feel rushed, and take plenty of rest breaks and drink water so you stay hydrated.”

If someone you know is experiencing a change in mood or withdrawing from social activities, here a few tips on how to help.

1. Keep in touch during the holiday season in whatever ways suits.
   It might be a simple message to say hello that can help. 

2. Offer to take them out to the shops.
   Sometimes it can be a very practical reason like lack of transport, which is causing someone to miss social activities. 

3. Be reliable and dependable.
   Missing a visit or phone call may not seem important to you but can be very disappointing for someone who doesn’t have much contact with others.

4. Enlist expert help.
   Some people might feel more comfortable talking about their feelings to a stranger or professional. If it seems appropriate, you could suggest they speak to their GP or My Aged Care.

Mr Smith says, “This time of year doesn’t have to be one that you dread – reaching out to friends and getting the right support is the best way to enjoy the holiday season.”

Life Without Barriers have services that may be really beneficial to older people during busy times of the year, like the upcoming Christmas season.

To talk to a member of the Life Without Barriers team about companionship, community services, and social support, or any of our other aged care services, phone 1800 935 483 or email agedcareservices@lwb.org.au. For more information, visit the Life Without Barriers website.