Coping With Loneliness During the Holidays: How To Help Older Adults

While the end of the year can feel synonymous with friends, family, and connection, some older adults may find it difficult to stay socially engaged due to mobility challenges, memory issues, or chronic pain. These obstacles may contribute to loneliness and, for some, exacerbate seasonal depression. But with proactive steps and the right support, it’s possible to stay connected, active, and healthy.

Overcoming Barriers to Connection

Adults 65 and older dealing with health conditions may find it difficult to maintain relationships and enjoy activities. While these challenges are significant, there are ways to stay connected to the people and moments that matter.

How to stay connected:

• Adapt activities: Choose gatherings that match your energy level, such as small group visits or virtual celebrations. Even a phone call or video chat can brighten your day.
• Use resources: Older adult transit services, rideshare apps, or local community groups may make transportation and accessibility easier.
• Rely on support: Talk with your doctor about concerns regarding reduced mobility, pain management, and mental health concerns to help you stay engaged in what matters most.

Staying Active

Regular activity is vital for boosting mood, improving sleep, and supporting overall health. Even with mobility limitations, setting achievable movement goals can make a big difference in both mental and physical well-being.

Activity goals for adults 65 and older:

• Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as walking or water aerobics. For gentle movement, try chair yoga or light stretching.
• Incorporate strength exercises twice a week to maintain muscle health.

Always speak with your primary care provider before starting any new exercise regimen. Your PCP can help you create a personalized plan tailored to your abilities and goals. If you don’t have a PCP, you can find one online.

Exploring New or Modified Hobbies

Many older adults struggle to continue hobbies they once loved due to pain or physical limitations. While this can be frustrating, adapting favorite pastimes or discovering new ones can reignite joy and creativity. Ideas for engagement:

• Modify old hobbies: Adaptive tools and techniques can make gardening, crafting, or other activities more accessible. While change may be challenging, focusing on the joy of continuing what you love can be the motivation you need.
• Try something new: Activities like painting, writing, or cooking may bring fresh creativity and satisfaction into your routine.
• Seek help: Talk to your care team about pain management and mobility support to help you regain confidence in your favorite pastimes.

Reducing Alcohol’s Impact

While holiday drinks are common, alcohol negatively affects mood, sleep, and medication effectiveness. Limiting or avoiding alcohol may help you maintain emotional balance and overall health.

Tips for managing alcohol consumption:

• Choose festive non-alcoholic beverages, such as sparkling water with fruit or herbal teas.
• Stay hydrated to support your overall well-being.

If alcohol use is a concern, talk to your medical provider to address it as part of your care plan.

Staying Healthy With Vaccinations

Holiday gatherings often mean increased exposure to illnesses, but that doesn’t mean you should avoid seeing loved ones. Along with good hygiene and hand washing practices, vaccinations provide crucial protection against respiratory illnesses.

Talk to your doctor about your vaccination history and the vaccinations recommended for you, which may include things like the influenza vaccine, COVID-19 booster, pneumonia vaccine, shingles vaccine, and others.

A Healthier, Happier Holiday Season

By taking steps to stay connected, active, and engaged, you can make this holiday season more joyful and meaningful.