CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Visiting family is a big part of celebrating the holidays, but for loved ones who are aging, it can also be a challenge.
Dr. Amy Raz at CenterWell Senior Primary Care's Wendover branch in Charlotte, said their patients have a broad range of needs, ranging from independent care to more assistance.
She told WCNC Charlotte's Jane Monreal, for many seniors, the holidays can be depressing. That's why Raz said it's important to consider their individual goals and limitations when it comes to making the most of your time together during the holidays.
"Is it to be independent and they can go in the dark?" Raz said. "Can they climb a flight of stairs? They can take multiple conversations going on in one room? Or, is it somebody that would not enjoy that experience?"
If your senior guest is visiting a new home for the first time, Raz says it's important to make them aware of the new environment, albeit for just a few hours or days.
"We have some, unfortunately, patients in an unfamiliar environment," Raz said. "And that's when they have their fall or their confusion or their fainting."
With years gone-by, Raz noted that bittersweet memories often surface this time of year.
"People will start to miss someone that's, maybe gone, or moved away or dead. And it kind of comes back at the holidays because that's when the memories come," Raz said. "And you can see sometimes, a little more sadness, not necessarily full-blown depression, but sadness."
Raz advised to let them talk about it.
"People want to talk about, 'When I was a kid,' and go on to some anecdote," Raz said. "They like to share their experiences and give some life lessons."
The geriatrics doctor added it may be tough for kids to understand their ailing grandparents are not how they remembered them.
"When you don't see somebody for a while, it can be almost like, what happened? This isn't how I remembered it," she said.
Raz said the interaction can also serve as an opportunity for a heart-to-heart connection.
"Looking at the pictures and the memories and sharing stories, I would say, passing on the values that you inherited to the next generation," Raz explained.
If the older relative is the one hosting in their home, staff at CenterWell recommended trying to check their pantry and refrigerator for nutritious and unspoiled food, reviewing their medications and looking for other obvious safety risks that could cause injuries.
Contact Jane Monreal at jmonreal@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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