How to stay connected with older relatives over the holidays
Want to make life easier for an older relative this Christmas? Here’s how to make it an easy December.
![<p>It is important to stay connected with your older relatives over the holiday season, particularly if someone in your life lives with depression. [Source: Shutterstock]</p>](https://agedcareguide-assets.imgix.net/news/articles/wp/stayconn__1212.jpg?fm=pjpg&format=auto&w=550&q=65)
It is important to stay connected with your older relatives over the holiday season, particularly if someone in your life lives with depression. [Source: Shutterstock]
Key points:
- More than one in 10 older people experience depression
- Over 30 percent of people who live in a residential aged care facility experience depression
- Lifeline creates roughly 120 safety plans each day to support people in the fight against depression
The holidays can be a challenging time for older people, who are likely to experience depression as a consequence of poor physical health, social isolation and loss, in addition to heightened financial pressures or increased family conflict.
Lifeline Australia has developed a new evidence-based Holiday Guide to help people understand, support and use practical tips to get through the upcoming weeks as easily as possible.
Lifeline Australia Chief Executive Officer Colin Seery said that while it is often depicted as a time of joy, celebration and togetherness, the holiday season can bring about a complex and intense mix of emotions for some people.
“Even those of us who are in a position to gather with friends or family find that it can bring its own set of challenges — from financial worries to family turmoil, the weight of expectations, old wounds and disappointment,” Mr Seery said.
“Unfortunately, even those surrounded by loved ones may still feel alone. Even if you are not feeling disconnected yourself, the holidays can be a great opportunity to extend a helping hand, share warmth and provide comfort to friends, family members and others in the community.
“It is really important that no one feels they have to face this holiday season alone. Please, if you feel you need support, reach out to someone you know or call Lifeline. Our Crisis Supporters will continue to be available on our 13 11 14 phone service as well as our text and chat channels, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“So, whether it’s 3am on Christmas Day or 11pm on New Year’s Eve, please know that Lifeline will be ready to listen to you and provide the support you need,” Mr Seery added.
The new Holiday Guide contains strategies to better manage pressures from financial stress and loneliness through to general well-being.
Lifeline’s Holiday Guide tips include:
- flexible holiday planning to accommodate those who require adjusted schedules;
- offering practical assistance, whether it’s helping with errands, childcare or providing a comforting meal;
- assisting with holiday preparations, such as decorating, shopping or cooking, to ease the load on those who may be overwhelmed;
- encouraging cost-effective or handmade presents;
- suggesting group activities that don’t involve significant spending.
“This informative Holiday Guide will give you the tools and resources to look after yourself and those you love and no matter where you are these holidays, please know Lifeline is here for you,” Mr Seery said.
If you or someone you know are feeling overwhelmed, you can connect with Lifeline in the way you feel most comfortable.
In addition to Lifeline Australia’s Holiday Guide, Aged Care Guide offers a wide range of information articles that you can use to give the older person in your life a stress-free December.
Some informative guides available on AgedCareGuide.com.au include:
How is your December schedule impacting your mental health? Let the team at Talking Aged Care know and subscribe to the FREE weekly newsletter for more information, news and updates.
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