‘Tis the season!
The holidays, while often filled with joy and celebration, can also be stressful and challenging. Here are some tips to help you navigate them.
Embrace Fond Memories and Create New Traditions
You’re not alone. The holidays can stir up feelings of loneliness and nostalgia for cherished traditions of the past. It’s important to prioritize your self-care this time of year, and you can start by acknowledging those emotions and sharing your feelings.
“Finding ways to honor and remember those who are missed, such as lighting a candle in their memory or sharing stories with others, can be a comforting way to keep their spirit alive during the holidays,” said Melanie Donathan, Mental Health Clinician in Acts’ Northeast Region.
“It is helpful to get together with someone else who is in a similar situation. By sharing stories of your loved one, you can focus on the happiness that they helped create,” she added.
Sharing your thoughts with others can offer comfort and remind you that you’re not grieving alone. All Acts’ communities have full-time chaplains who are available to all residents who may be going through a difficult time. There are also grief support groups on campus to provide comradery and additional support.
While it’s natural to hold onto beloved traditions during this time of year, this is an opportunity to create new ones:
- Learn about different cultures and holiday rituals.
- Enjoy a holiday movie marathon or drive through neighborhoods to admire the holiday decorations.
- Engage in an activity that brings you joy or a sense of purpose.
“Think back to what you loved about the holidays as a child,” Melanie said. “Did you bake cookies? Did you drive around to find houses with extravagant lights? Taking part in these activities can help reset your focus to rediscover the joy.”
Share the Gift of Volunteering
Many residents of Acts-Retirement Life Communities find joy during the holidays by giving back to others. Acts’ residents organize toy drives for local hospitals, donate canned goods to area food banks, contribute to college scholarships, and more. The large groups of resident volunteers at Acts are well-known for their meaningfully contributions, sharing their time and talents to enrich both their communities and surrounding areas.
Volunteering has the power to make a positive impact and tangibly change lives, including your own. It can be an instant mood booster, helping reduce stress and depression.
“Doing things for others creates a sense of pride, which increases self-confidence and releases dopamine into your body, making you feel relaxed and happy,” Melanie said.
Additionally, feeling a sense of purpose and connection to your community leads to lower risks of loneliness and anxiety.
Simplify Your To-Do List
To make the holidays more enjoyable, it’s also okay to scale back and focus on what truly matters. Celebrating with those you love does not have to include a large price tag.
Small meaningful gifts are much more valuable than anything that will cause financial stress. Even a handwritten note, read aloud at a family gathering you might not be able to physically attend will make you feel part of the festivities and let your family know that you are thinking of them.
If the thought of holiday decorating and gift wrapping is overwhelming, Acts residents can check that off their “to do” list by getting support from Acts’ Home Services.
“Acts’ dedicated Home Services teams across all regions take immense pride in supporting our residents during the holidays. From holiday shopping and gift wrapping to mailing gifts or addressing cards, we are here to make the season joyful and stress-free,” said Cheryl Clancy, Director of Home Health in the Southeast region. “By letting us handle the details, you can truly relax and enjoy this special time of year.”
You don’t have to do much decorating either! Acts’ beautiful campus are an extension of your home and, this time of year, Acts communities transform into beautifully decorated spaces, perfect for holiday parties and gatherings. Invite your loved ones to a meal at the many restaurants on campus. Best of all, you don’t have to lift a finger – your Acts community is professionally decorated to create a warm and festive ambiance, and the food is delicious. You can simply enjoy the holiday season without hanging a single ornament or cooking a single meal!
Live in the Moment
Living at any of Acts Retirement-Life Communities, there are plenty of opportunities to be actively engaged, and the holidays are a perfect time to enjoy new experiences.
“Each community hosts holiday galas with a special seasonal menu and decadent appetizers served in the lobby,” said Wendy Bushong, Life Engagement Coordinator at Indian River Estates in Vero Beach, Florida. “We bring carolers to the community, and residents enjoy cookie exchanges and gift swaps; it’s a very festive, joyful time of the year.”
“The holidays at Acts are so fabulous because our residents are truly involved. There’s live music and lots of laughter on campus” said Dawn Beall, Life Engagement Director at Buckingham’s Choice, in Adamstown, Maryland. “You’ll see how residents are engaged and happy. They completely light up.”
But, Make Time for YOU!
It’s easy to get swept up in the holiday spirit and want to do everything on the social calendar, especially when you’re new to the community and want to experience the many opportunities available.
A little self-care can go a long way during this busy time of the year. This includes getting enough rest, eating well and staying active.
Donathan suggests making time for relaxation and activities that bring you joy, whether it’s reading a good book, taking a leisurely walk, or practicing mindfulness. “Don’t hesitate to take breaks when needed and allow yourself the grace to say no to events or tasks that feel too taxing,” she added.
Lima Estates resident Gloria Colabelli enjoys having so many options to join in the festivities at her Acts community but knows when to make time for herself.
“With so many holiday happenings at our community, day trips and activities - it could get exhausting,” Gloria said. “I make a point to spend quiet downtime in my apartment some evenings.”
Above all, rediscover the joy by remembering “the reason for the season” while enjoying the company of others, reflecting on cherished memories and creating new ones. Happy Holidays!