The most wonderful time of the year: holidays encourage senior socialization

The holiday season is a beautiful array of lights, with joy and community woven through the month of December. It means spending time with family and friends, giving gifts to those we love most, and gathering around the dinner table to celebrate what really matters – connections. Even for independent older adults who live far away from their children and grandchildren, the holiday season inspires the child within and brings up warm memories.

There are so many ways for independent older adults to have an exciting holiday season. Companionship, community and trying something new are three of the best things that a senior can experience, and the winter holiday season is no different. For those living in a senior living community, the festivities are numerous and can be shared with new friends.

When family is far away and you’re not able to spend the actual holiday together in-person, consider planning for a virtual holiday. There are many technology tools available to see and talk to family over a smartphone, tablet or laptop computer. Plan ahead so these tools are readily available, and the device is set up properly. It’s also a good idea to consider writing or typing out instructions so all runs smoothly.

If getting together before or after the actual holiday is more convenient for everyone, this can become a new family tradition with its own set of special memories. Create your own day and make it yours!

Holiday activities can be something simple like baking a holiday dessert, having a nice dinner together, or watching a favorite holiday movie, all of which can be enjoyed from the convenience of your senior living community. Venture out to see Christmas lights, listen to carolers, or attend a local Chanukah celebration. Many independent senior living communities offer holiday-themed activities throughout the month of December, so there are ample opportunities for you to participate in an on-campus activity and meet new friends.

Gulf Coast Village, Cape Coral’s only life plan community, hosts daily interactive events and gatherings during the holidays, including religious services, sip and shops, holiday-themed parties, musical events, and off-campus activities, like trips to view the Holiday Festival of Lights in Cape Coral. Fostering a sense of community and companionship is implemented into the lives of independent living residents daily, but even more so during the holiday season, when friendship and quality time are particularly important.

Making plans with friends is another great way to embrace the holiday spirit throughout the entire month of December. Don’t feel any pressure to host a large gathering – even the simplest of activities can guarantee a good time. Some festive ideas include:

• Take a stroll through your senior living community and check out your neighbors’ decorations.
• Grab a couple of your neighbors and have a movie party in your apartment. To make it even more fun, pick a holiday treat and make it together.
• Organize a White Elephant or Secret Santa gift exchange with your closest friends and swap gifts over cocktails at happy hour.
• Gather your friends for a few local events, like The Nutcracker at Barbara B. Mann, the Chanukah Festival and Menorah Lighting at the Chabad Jewish Center in Cape Coral, or the Boat-A-Long parade of boats at Four Freedoms Park in Cape Coral.
• Do you need to finish wrapping the gifts for everyone on your list? Chances are, your friends do, too. Invite them over for a gift-wrapping party and do it together!

Holidays don’t always have to be extravagant – small activities can make the holiday season all the more joyful. There are so many ways to blend the past and present, to enjoy a season filled with joy and new memories.