This time of year has always been about togetherness. Unfortunately, in 2020, togetherness can be dangerous, and many of us are finding new ways to spend the holidays to help stop the spread of the COVID-19. Take a closer look at how you can find the holiday spirit even if this season looks different for your family.
5 Ways to Have a Happy Holiday During the Pandemic
’Tis the season to be jolly, or so they say. For many of us, being ‘jolly’ has been difficult this year. As we continue to fight a pandemic through the holidays, many of us will be spending the holidays in a new way. But, thankfully, new does not have to mean ‘bad.’ Here are some ways to embrace the season if COVID-19 restrictions are affecting your holiday plans.
1. Adapt and overcome
Most of us have incredibly high expectations for the holidays. Picture perfect decorations and indulgent food and drink are now par for the course. This year will look different, and as many families choose not to gather, those decorations and meals look different too. To have a happy holiday season, we must adjust our expectations. It’s important to acknowledge your feelings and to be honest with yourself and your family. It’s okay to admit loneliness and frustration with the current situation while also doing your best to say positive.
2. Design your own holiday
As expectations are adjusted, you may find that this is your chance to design your perfect holiday! Play by your own rules. Slow down or speed up. Take the time to plan your best 2021 truly. While there are some traditions you may want to keep (or move online), this is your chance to spend the holidays doing what you want to do. No one is expecting the homemade cheesecake or the plates of cookies that you make every year. Is your perfect day catching up on your booklist curled up by the fire? This is the year to say goodbye to the pressures of the season, and it may just be your best holiday yet.
Experience Leisure Care Senior Living
3. Find time to give back
So much has changed this year, but some things remain the same. One of those things is the joy that we receive from giving. This year, more than most years, some people need our support. They need financial support, moral support, and emotional support. Start a food drive for your local community, join in a toy drive, or collect clothing for children in need. There are tons of ways to give back during the holidays, and you can do so safely while keeping a physical distance.
4. Cultivate connections virtually
At Leisure Care, we like to say that social distancing does not mean social isolation. In fact, many seniors are finding that they are staying better connected to friends and family through technology, celebrating milestones with family members across geographical distance. Plan a family video call with some fun games to keep everyone engaged. Call your granddaughter and cook together in separate kitchens. Mail Secret Santa gifts. This season will require us to be creative in cultivating our connections, but you may find that you see family and friends more often this season – even if it’s through a screen.
5. Remember the ‘why’
At the end of the day, we must remember why we are being asked to change our holiday plans. We must care about other people. We must care about their health, well-being, and do our part to stop the spread of the virus. We want our family and friends to be healthy, and we want to celebrate with full tables next year.
So, this year, join us as we find ways to make the season jolly while also being responsible citizens. And, if your area allows for gathering with others, remember to check on those who will be spending the day solo. Take the time for your video calls, send cards, and take care of each other.
To learn more about Leisure Care coronavirus protocols and protections, download our COVID-19 Guide. Our communities meet and often exceed CDC guidelines while also giving residents a full social calendar. Contact a Leisure Care community near you today to learn more.
Find a Leisure Care Community
Better with age, exceptional with us! Come and see how Leisure Care communities are helping seniors rediscover (and sometimes reinvent) themselves.
About the Author
