The Holiday Season in Nursing Homes: A Guide for Administrators

• October 26, 2023
• By Rachel Abshear
• In Ohio CEUs News

As the holiday season approaches, nursing home administrators are presented with a unique set of challenges. This season brings joy, hope, and cherished memories for many. However, for the elderly residents of nursing homes, it may also bring feelings of loneliness, stress, and sadness. To ensure that the holidays are a time of happiness and comfort for all residents, it’s crucial to prioritize mental health and address common challenges head-on.

1. Combatting Loneliness

Loneliness can intensify during the holidays, especially for those without close family or friends. Studies have indicated up to 60% of nursing home residents don’t have any visitors, so the challenge to provide meaningful connections often falls on staff. Here are some ways administrators and other team members can help:

• Host Events: Organize regular social events throughout the holiday season. These could be daily coffee mornings, craft sessions, or sing-alongs. It’s all about getting residents involved and providing opportunities for interaction. Many youth organizations (such as schools, daycare centers, and scouting groups) look for service opportunities during the holidays, so inviting them to sing or visit with residents can be mutually beneficial. Consider also hosting a family event that is not holiday-specific but provides a meaningful opportunity for interaction. For example, a scrapbooking night could offer family members of all ages a chance to bring in a picture, recipe, or letter and work with their loved one to make a frameable scrapbook page. A one-page activity can be completed in about an hour and offers time for connection, conversation, coffee, and a great souvenir for the resident or the family member(s).
• Connect Digitally: Set up video calls for residents with family who can’t visit in person. Encourage families to send digital photo albums or videos to be shared with their loved ones. If these options are a bit daunting, try connecting with a local high school or college and inviting students to come in and volunteer to assist with the technical piece. This is almost second nature to the youth of today and so meaningful to our seniors. Another fun idea is to create or purchase a small stuffed animal representing your community or city and give it to staff members traveling during the winter. They can take pictures with the stuffed animal and post them to the community’s social media platforms, which can then be shared with residents. Family members can be encouraged to do something similar so the community as a whole can feel like a big family celebrating each other’s travels.
• Buddy System: Introduce a buddy system where residents can pair up to share experiences, stories, and perhaps even gifts. This ensures that no one feels left out or isolated. Buddies can be connected based on similar backgrounds, compatible interests, or even room locations within the building. Staff members can be encouraged to serve as Secret Santas (or any name that works within your organization) to ensure all residents receive cards and small gifts throughout the season, especially residents whose religion supports such traditions but whose family is unavailable to assist.

2. Cultural Sensitivity

Another challenge senior communities face during the holidays is the potential for some residents to feel left out of holiday celebrations. To create an inclusive environment, consider:

• Diverse Celebrations: Not every resident celebrates Christmas. Recognize and celebrate various holidays like Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, etc. Organize events that educate and celebrate these diverse traditions. Often, libraries or local colleges allow a representative to come in and share information about specific holidays. Local organizations representing people of different faiths may appreciate an invitation to provide education about their celebrations. Similarly, it is important to offer a place for alternate activities during holiday celebrations for those residents who don’t subscribe to a particular religion or who do not want to be included in holiday events. Identifying residents’ faith and preferences is key to ensuring diversity in holiday celebrations.
• Cultural Training: Train your staff about different cultures, religions, and traditions so they can be sensitive to the needs and beliefs of every resident. This can be done during staff meetings, through newsletters, and even through bulletin boards recognizing various holidays. Help staff members understand language and terminology preferences that may help every resident feel included and comfortable with the seasonal festivities.
• Feedback: Ask residents and their families about their traditions and how they would like them honored. Their input can provide valuable insights and foster inclusivity. We recommend including a survey as part of the admission process so this information can be included year-round in programming. Still, genuine conversations can also be important ways to learn about resident preferences. Keep the focus on including all residents, respecting cultural and religious diversity, and developing authentic connections with all those (residents and staff) within your community.

3. Managing Stress

The holiday season can be overwhelming. It’s vital to recognize signs of stress and provide support. Some ways of doing this include:

• Quiet Spaces: Set aside rooms where residents can relax and unwind. Soft music, dim lighting, and comfortable chairs can make a big difference.
• Mindfulness & Meditation: Introduce guided meditation sessions or gentle yoga classes to help residents manage stress and anxiety.
• Counseling: Offer counseling services or group therapy sessions for residents struggling with holiday-related stress or memories.

4. Innovative Solutions to Resident Challenges

The holidays can underscore certain limitations for residents, such as lack of transportation, limited finances, or health issues. Here’s how to address them:

• Virtual Shopping: With many unable to go shopping, set up virtual shopping experiences. Staff can assist residents in buying gifts online, ensuring they don’t miss out on gift-giving.
• Gift Banks: For those with limited finances, create a “gift bank.” Solicit donations or organize fundraisers throughout the year so every resident can gift something during the holidays.
• Transport Solutions: For those who can leave the facility, collaborate with local transport services or volunteers to provide transportation to religious services, shopping centers, or community events.
• Local Partnerships: Partner with local businesses for discounts or special deals for your residents. This could be for gifts, festive foods, or services.
• Holiday Fair: Invite local vendors to come into your community and sell their goods at reasonable prices. This can be a helpful service for residents and staff while providing another opportunity for family involvement and community festivity (the fair can easily be part of a larger community festival offering winter treats, entertainment, and crafts for kids, along with the gift sale).

Conclusion

The holiday season, filled with the potential for joy and connection, can also bring about challenges for nursing home residents. As administrators, our role extends beyond day-to-day care; it’s about creating an environment where residents feel seen, valued, and cherished. With careful planning, cultural sensitivity, and innovative solutions, we can ensure that the holiday season is a time of happiness and warmth for all our residents. By prioritizing their mental well-being and addressing the unique challenges they face, we not only uplift their spirits but also enrich the overall atmosphere of our facilities. Remember, the best gift we can give our residents is the gift of belonging, love, and understanding. Let’s make this holiday season one to remember for everyone under our care.