Navigating the Holidays Successfully

The Effect of Holidays on Mental Health:

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. For many seniors, however, this time of year can also bring feelings of loneliness and isolation. As family members grow busy with their own lives and obligations, seniors may find themselves without the company they once enjoyed during the holidays. Coping without family can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be a lonely experience. In fact, there are numerous ways for seniors to make the most of the upcoming holiday season and create new memories filled with love and happiness.

One important aspect of making the most of the holiday season is by creating new traditions and activities with family. While some traditions may no longer be feasible or practical due to changing circumstances or physical limitations, it's important for seniors to embrace the opportunity to start fresh. This could involve planning a special holiday meal together or organizing a festive movie night where everyone gathers around to watch classic holiday films. By involving family members in the process, seniors can feel more connected and valued during this special time of year.

Another way for seniors to make the most of the holiday season is by exploring volunteer opportunities and connecting with their community. Volunteering not only provides a sense of purpose but also offers an opportunity to meet new people and give back to those in need. Seniors can consider volunteering at local food banks, homeless shelters, or senior centers where they can engage with others who may also be seeking companionship during this time of year.

Taking care of oneself and finding joy in solitude is another essential aspect for seniors during the holiday season. It's important for seniors to prioritize self-care activities that bring them happiness and peace. This could involve engaging in hobbies such as painting, reading, or gardening. Additionally, practicing mindfulness techniques like meditation or yoga can help reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being.

Creating New Traditions and Activities with Family

The holiday season is a special time for seniors to connect with their families and create lasting memories. It's an opportunity to engage in activities that bring joy, laughter, and a sense of togetherness. One way to make the most of this festive season is by exploring new traditions and activities with family members. 

Crafting and DIY Projects

There are plenty of craft ideas that seniors can enjoy with their family during the holiday season. One idea is creating personalized holiday cards or decorations. Seniors can gather supplies like cardstock, glitter, ribbons, and markers to design unique cards that reflect their style and personality. This activity not only brings out their creativity but also spreads joy when they give these handmade items to family members or friends.

Another craft idea is making ornaments for the Christmas tree. Seniors can use various materials such as clay, beads, or even recycled materials like old CDs or bottle caps to create beautiful ornaments. These homemade ornaments add a personal touch to the tree and become cherished keepsakes for future generations.

Cooking and Baking Together

Cooking and baking together during the holiday season can be a delightful experience for seniors and their families. It provides an opportunity to share traditional recipes, pass down family secrets, and bond over delicious food.

Seniors can involve their family members in meal preparation by assigning tasks according to each person's ability. For example, grandchildren can help with measuring ingredients or stirring batter while adults assist with more complex tasks. This collaborative effort not only lightens the workload but also creates a sense of teamwork and togetherness.

When choosing recipes, it's important to consider the preferences and dietary restrictions of everyone involved. Opt for simple recipes that are easy to follow and accommodate various tastes. Classics like gingerbread cookies, apple pie, or roasted turkey are always a hit during the holiday season.

Cooking and baking together is not just about the end result; it's about the process and the memories created along the way. Seniors can share stories behind family recipes, teach their loved ones cooking techniques, and create new traditions centered around food. The aroma of freshly baked goods filling the house and the laughter shared in the kitchen will undoubtedly make this holiday season unforgettable.

By engaging in crafting and DIY projects as well as cooking and baking together, seniors can create new traditions that bring joy and strengthen bonds with their families. These activities provide opportunities for self-expression, creativity, and quality time spent with loved ones. So this holiday season, let's encourage seniors to embrace these activities wholeheartedly and make beautiful memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Exploring Volunteer Opportunities and Connecting with the Community

Volunteering is a fulfilling way for seniors to make a positive impact on their community while also connecting with others. By giving back, they can find a sense of purpose and fulfillment during the holiday season. There are various volunteer opportunities available that cater to different interests and abilities.

Assisting at Local Food Banks or Shelters One meaningful way for seniors to contribute to their community is by volunteering at local food banks or shelters. This not only helps those in need but also provides seniors with a chance to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Volunteering at food banks or shelters allows seniors to witness firsthand the impact they can have on someone's life. From organizing donations to serving meals, there are numerous ways for seniors to get involved. Additionally, many organizations provide training and support, ensuring that seniors feel confident in their roles.

Participating in Community Events and Programs Seniors can also explore participating in community events and programs as a way to connect with others during the holiday season. Many communities organize events such as tree lighting ceremonies, holiday parades, or craft fairs. These events offer opportunities for seniors to socialize with neighbors, friends, and family members who may be visiting for the holidays. Participating in these activities can help combat feelings of loneliness or isolation that some seniors may experience during this time of year.

Moreover, local senior centers often host special holiday programs tailored specifically for older adults. These programs may include festive parties, group outings, or educational workshops. Participating in these activities not only fosters social connections but also provides an opportunity for seniors to learn new skills or engage in hobbies they enjoy.

By exploring volunteer opportunities and participating in community events and programs, seniors can create meaningful connections and experiences during the holiday season. These activities allow them to give back while also enriching their own lives through social engagement and personal growth.

Remember: It's important for seniors to consider their physical limitations and choose activities that align with their abilities. It's always a good idea to consult with healthcare professionals or caregivers before engaging in any new activities.

Taking Care of Oneself and Finding Joy in Solitude

Taking care of oneself and finding joy in solitude is an important aspect of enjoying the holiday season for seniors. Engaging in mindfulness and meditation can be a beneficial practice that promotes relaxation and overall well-being. Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment, focusing on one's thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. For seniors, practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and enhance mental clarity.

There are various resources and techniques available for seniors to incorporate mindfulness into their daily lives. Meditation apps such as Headspace and Calm offer guided meditation sessions specifically designed for seniors. These apps provide step-by-step instructions and soothing background music to create a calming atmosphere. Additionally, there are online courses and workshops that teach mindfulness techniques tailored to the needs of seniors.

Enjoying nature and participating in outdoor activities is another way for seniors to find joy in solitude during the holiday season. Spending time outdoors has numerous therapeutic effects on both physical and mental health. Seniors can take leisurely walks in parks or gardens, go birdwatching, or simply sit outside and soak up the sunlight.

Engaging with nature allows seniors to connect with their surroundings, breathe fresh air, and appreciate the beauty of their environment. It also provides opportunities for gentle exercise, which can improve mobility and strengthen muscles. Seniors should consider choosing activities that align with their abilities and preferences to ensure a safe yet enjoyable experience.

In conclusion, the holiday season is a special time for everyone, including seniors. It provides an opportunity to create cherished memories, strengthen family bonds, and find joy in the company of loved ones. By embracing new traditions and activities with family, exploring volunteer opportunities and connecting with the community, and taking care of oneself and finding joy in solitude, seniors can make the most of this festive time of year.

Retirement: How to plan and prepare to live happily in retirement

Retirement is an important phase of life, and for many people, it can be a time to relax, explore new hobbies, and enjoy the fruits of their labor. However, it can also be a challenging time for some who are transitioning from a busy working life to a more relaxed and unstructured lifestyle. In this post, we will explore some tips and strategies to help make retirement the best time in your life.

• Plan ahead for retirement

Planning ahead is crucial when it comes to retirement. This includes not only financial planning but also making plans for how you will spend your time. It's important to have a clear idea of what you want to do in retirement, whether it's traveling, taking up a new hobby, or spending time with family and friends. By having a plan in place, you'll have a better idea of what you need to do to make your retirement dreams a reality.

But what do you do if you are ready to retire and you have made no plans? I say it is never too late to start making those plans.  Yes, you may have trouble getting things to line up correctly due to frustrations about money or ways and means to accomplish things, but all of those frustrations can be worked through if you just develop patience.  

Let's say you want to travel, but did not make any plans for travel before retiring. Okay, first make a list of all the things you need to do in order to be able to travel.  If you want to travel out of your country, the first thing you need to get is a passport.  Then you need to determine where you want to go and for how long. Then you need to research how much the trip will cost you so you can start saving to cover that cost.  You also need to research how much it will cost while you are there--hotel, meals, travel expenses, etc. Once you have all this information, you can actually begin to plan step-by-step how you can accomplish your goal.

It all goes back to goal setting, which I have talked about before.  Goal setting is something you can do to make your life exactly what you want it to be.  If you would like a free goal setting file, click here.

• Stay active and healthy

Staying active and healthy is essential for a fulfilling retirement. This includes eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and staying socially engaged. Exercise is especially important as it can help improve your physical and mental health, reduce stress, and increase your energy levels. Joining a gym, taking up a sport, or simply going for regular walks are all great ways to stay active in retirement.

Okay, but what if you have already experienced a setback in health that makes being active difficult or seemingly impossible.  Fortunately, being active takes many, many forms and one of them should work for you.  If you can't stand to exercise, there are many programs to exercise in a chair.  Try Silver Sneakers classes. 

If your lungs are compromised or you have heart problems, there are many ways you can pursue an active lifestyle, but you need to ask you physician about them.  If your doctor okays the activity, check out Silver Sneakers, or other aging programs in your neighborhood.  Most will offer activities for people with current limitations.

• Pursue your passions

Retirement is a time to pursue your passions and interests. Whether it's painting, writing, gardening, or playing an instrument, there are many hobbies and activities that can bring joy and fulfillment to your life. Taking up a new hobby or pursuing an existing one can also help keep your mind sharp and improve your overall well-being.

This one is easy.  If you do not now or never have had time for a hobby, it will require a bit of soul searching to discover one that makes you feel joyful.  Also, you should not be ashamed to be a "beginner" in any hobby activity you may choose.  Actually, being a beginner is very refreshing and enables you to reclaim your childhood enthusiasm.  Art, music, photography, bird watching, animal care, wood working, sewing, crochet, knitting--all these and more are available to be learned.  If you Google one of these, you will find a veritable source of learning options for each one.  There are local classes, online classes, videos, blog posts, etc. that will help you learn what you need to know.

• Travel and explore

Traveling and exploring new places is a great way to make the most of your retirement years. Whether you want to visit new countries or explore your own backyard, traveling can be a great way to learn new things, meet new people, and experience new cultures. Planning your trips well in advance can also help you save money and make the most of your travel experiences.

Even though we talked about travel at the beginning, I want to post here about some travel ideas you may not have thought of.  Have you explored the city or area you live in thoroughly?  I bet there are some hidden gems waiting to be found there.  Maybe you have not ever explored your state.  That makes wonderful day trips that are not nearly as expensive and can give you quite a lot of happiness. Sometimes, just going for a very nice, slow-paced drive in the country can be considered travel.  What happens if you don't drive? Well, find a friend who does or if that is not possible, spend time watching travel videos and informational videos about your local area.  Your local librarian is a go-to for this type of information.

The bottom line here is that you can travel and explore no matter your circumstances.

• Volunteer and give back

Volunteering and giving back to your community is a great way to stay active and engaged in retirement. There are many opportunities to volunteer in your local area, whether it's at a food bank, hospital, or animal shelter. Volunteering can not only help you stay connected to your community, but it can also provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

If you never thought about volunteering in your community before, once again you can Google the idea and see what you find or you can talk with your librarian who will have many ideas for you.  Like animals? The shelters and rescue organizations are always in need of help. Want to help others? Check out opportunities to help feed, clothe, or learn to read and write. You can also call your local hospitals to join their volunteer staff and keep patients company.  The number of opportunities is astounding.  If you can talk and move around, you can volunteer.

• Connect with others

Staying connected with others is important for a happy and fulfilling retirement. This includes maintaining relationships with family and friends, but also making new connections through community events, clubs, and groups. Joining a book club, taking a cooking class, or attending a lecture series are all great ways to meet new people and stay engaged in retirement.

My whole last post was about this topic, so instead of restating it, you can check it out here.

• Embrace new technology

Technology is constantly changing, and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by all the new devices and software available. However, embracing new technology can help you stay connected with family and friends, pursue new interests, and even improve your health. From using fitness trackers to staying connected with loved ones through social media, there are many ways that technology can enhance your retirement experience.

We talked a bit about this in the previous post also, but here I would recommend checking out classes to take.  Whether online or in person, you can learn the ins and outs of the new technology there.  Even if you have to learn slowly, you can still be using technology to make your life happier.  I have been working with computers since 1968 and still have to ask questions when I want to do something new.  

It is an ever-developing area and you will never know everything, so don't beat yourself up if it is difficult to catch on.  Start with basics and move slowly.  You will learn what you need to know that way and avoid all the bells and whistles that the tech companies think you need (but really don't).

• Stay financially secure

Financial security is crucial for a happy and stress-free retirement. This includes not only saving enough money to support yourself throughout your retirement years, but also making wise investment decisions and managing your expenses carefully. Seeking the advice of a financial planner can be a great way to ensure that you are on track financially and can enjoy your retirement years without worrying about money.

If you did not save for retirement, you are not alone.  It is possible to be fiscally secure in retirement without large sums of money saved, it is just harder and requires very strict budgeting.  If all you live on is Social Security, you need to make a budget immediately! Go through the last 4-6 months expenses to see what you regularly spend money on and then note extras or surprise expenses.  Use all this information to make a budget that fits your life.  Does that mean you will always have enough money? No, but if you budget a small amount for savings each month, you may be able to handle surprises that pop up. Here is a link to an article with free, printable budgeting sheets.

Money is the biggest cause of anxiety after retirement and you deserve to be free of this anxiety as much as possible.  That does not mean that you won't worry at times, because you will, but if your budget covers all your expenses, you will have some breathing room.

• Take care of your mental health

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Retirement can be a time of transition and adjustment, and it's important to take steps to maintain your emotional well-being. This can include seeking out support from friends and family, practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga, and staying mentally active through reading, puzzles, or other mental exercises. If you're experiencing feelings of depression or anxiety, it's important to seek professional help from a mental health provider.

As a retired psychiatric nurse, I fully expect everyone to take their mental health seriously.  Depression kills.  Anxiety causes heart attacks.  These are real illnesses and need to be addressed directly.  If you find yourself getting more and more isolative and it is becoming harder and harder for you to go anywhere, you need to talk to your doctor about mental health issues.  Maybe be directed and referred to a counselor or psychiatrist for help.  There is no shame in taking care of yourself this way.

• Stay engaged in your community

Staying engaged in your community is important for maintaining a sense of purpose and connection in retirement. This can include volunteering, attending community events, or getting involved in local organizations. By staying active and engaged in your community, you can make a positive impact on the world around you and feel a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

This is one area that I fear we have lost.  No one knows their neighbors anymore.  That is sad.  But if you live in a housing development or an apartment complex, there may be an organization you could participate in that works to keep your area clean and safe.  Joining up will make you feel better about where you live and will help you make friends with the people around you.  It is always safer if we know each other (those who live around us). If you area does not have anything like this, maybe consider starting one with the help of some others around you.

In addition to the tips listed above, there are many resources available to help you make the most of your retirement years. The following links provide more information and resources on retirement planning, financial planning, and aging gracefully:

1. AARP: The American Association of Retired Persons provides a wide range of resources and information on topics related to retirement and aging.
2. Social Security Administration: The Social Security Administration provides information on retirement benefits, including how to apply for benefits and how to manage your benefits once you're receiving them.
3. Medicare.gov: Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older. Medicare.gov provides information on how to enroll in Medicare, what is covered by Medicare, and how to find a healthcare provider.
4. National Institute on Aging: The National Institute on Aging is part of the National Institutes of Health and provides information on healthy aging, including tips on staying healthy and active as you age.
5. Retirement Living Information Center: The Retirement Living Information Center provides a wide range of resources and information on topics related to retirement living, including retirement communities, assisted living, and long-term care.

So, it is never too late to plan and prepare to live happily in retirement.  All you have to do is put forth a bit of effort and make it happen.  

Retirement: It's what you make of it

 I had always looked forward to being retired. My work as a psychiatric nurse was taxing, challenging, and tiring.  I did this for more than 27 years and in that time managed to hurt almost every joint in my body; not to mention all the times I was physically attacked by a patient.  Needless to say, I was more than ready to hand that hat up and stay home.  I had prepared some for the inevitable retiring from my job.  I had a 401K that I had added to regularly.  I had a small living expense budget since it was just me and I didn't require a lot.  I pretty much had everything I needed or really wanted before I left work.  I felt I was as ready as I ever would be to retire.

What I did not consider was the lack of structure and how that would affect my mood and body.  You can only sleep so long.  You can only watch TV or play on your computer for so long.  After a very short while, you will become bored.  By leaving my job, I felt I had lost my purpose and my direction in life.  It was a bit disconcerting to say the least.  I quickly learned that I needed some type of an intervention in my life that would help me create structure, give me purpose and bring back my joy.  Big challenge, huh?

Well, I have never been a quitter and I believe that every problem has a solution if you can only reach it.  So, I did what I always do when faced with a problem.  I researched the topic.  I read articles about retirement, retirement planning, what to do when you retire, etc.  I researched scientific journals about the effects of retirement on the person's mood, physical health and activity levels. To be succinct, I read just about everything I could find on this issue.

What I discovered was a brief list of things to do in retirement to live a happy life. The list is not long, but incorporates just about all the issues I was dealing with since I retired.  I hope this short list will help you too:

• Stay active-- as little as 30 minutes a day of mild exercise will keep you healthy.
  
  
  
• Eat a healthy diet--eating a balanced diet is tantamount to maintaining health as we age.
• Get quality sleep--science has found that 7 hours of quality sleep a night is needed to maintain good health and a good mood for seniors.
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  Remain social--maintaining your social connections is so important.  You may lose those connections from your job or you may not, but having other connections will keep you happy and healthy.
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  Maintain a budget--do not live outside of your means.  Hopefully, you have some money put aside, but that should only be used in an emergency.  Make whatever income you get work and be scrupulous in staying on top of it.
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  Consider alternative ways to fill your time--Use your computer to make extra money, go to clubs/social activities, join exercise classes, volunteer somewhere that makes you feel useful, read books or use audiobooks to keep your mind active, try out an old hobby that you let slide or start a new one.
• 
  Get regular checkups and attend new issues immediately--your physician is your best friend when it comes to maintaining your health.  You need to do everything you can to stay healthy, but if something goes "off" your doctor needs to help you figure it out and treat it at the beginning stage (not when it becomes an emergency).
  

I told you it was short and sweet.  There is nothing on that list that we all have not heard a million times before.  The fact is, staying healthy and happy, no matter where you are in life, requires the same exact things.  We fool ourselves into thinking we need something fancy or special to accomplish this goal, but alas, we just need to get our minds straight and do it.