The holidays are a time for love, togetherness, and creating cherished memories. At Bayshire Rancho Mirage, it’s our mission to ensure that everyone in our community experiences the warmth of this special season.
As a premier Palm Springs memory care community, we understand the importance of seniors with dementia staying connected to loved ones. Isolation is common among those living with dementia, and the holiday season can trigger feelings of loneliness regardless.
In this blog, we’ll explore 10 ideas to help memory care residents stay connected with loved ones during the holidays.
#1.) Spend quality time together.
The holidays are a perfect time to invite loved ones to visit, especially those you may not see as often. Whether catching up over coffee or throwing a traditional holiday gathering, spending quality time together can create lasting memories and strengthen bonds.
#2.) Join community events.
Participating in community festivities during the holidays can bring joy and a sense of belonging. Whether it’s a holiday concert, a cookie decorating contest, or a themed party, there are plenty of opportunities for residents to engage and connect.
At Bayshire Rancho Mirage, we host a variety of family-friendly events to celebrate holiday festivities. Check out our upcoming events calendar and be sure to invite your loved ones to join in the fun!
#3.) Make friends with neighbors.
Making friends with your neighbors and fellow residents can help you stay connected, even when family and friends aren’t around. Building friendships with other Palm Springs memory care residents fosters a supportive network and a sense of community.
While community events are a great way to meet other residents, it can also be as simple as saying hello! Next time you cross paths with your neighbor, offer a friendly holiday greeting and strike up a conversation.
#4.) Take advantage of technology.
Technology can bridge the gap when loved ones are physically apart. Schedule time for video calls with family members and friends during the holidays to connect with those who can’t visit.
Additionally, take advantage of social media. Keeping up with loved ones over social media can make catching up during visits easier. Follow family and friends to stay up to date on important moments and be sure to share what’s happening at your Palm Springs memory care community.
#5.) Start a scrapbook.
Creating a scrapbook is a wonderful way to relive past memories. Gather photos, mementos, and stories to craft a beautiful keepsake that can be shared with family and friends.
Scrapbooks make meaningful, cherished gifts – but they can be just as fun to create together! Consider collaborating on a scrapbook with family during the holiday season, creating a family keepsake to give to future generations.
#6.) Create handmade gifts.
Get creative and craft handmade gifts for your loved ones. Handmade gifts carry a personal touch and can be a source of pride and joy when shared with others.
At Bayshire Rancho Mirage, we encourage our residents to take part in our community activities, such as craft nights. Exploring a creative outlet such as making arts and crafts can improve your mood as well as help strengthen cognitive abilities.
#7.) Send holiday cards.
Sending handwritten holiday cards can be a beautiful way to stay connected with loved ones, especially those who may not be able to visit. Cards also provide an opportunity to practice fine motor skills and communicate nonverbally, which may be a relief for seniors living with dementia.
#8.) Share a holiday tradition.
Maintaining family traditions is a meaningful way to feel connected to loved ones, even those who live far away or have passed. Find ways to bring old traditions into your new community, like sharing a treasured family recipe with a neighbor or having friends help decorate for the holidays.
Passing down traditions is also a meaningful way to connect generations. While visiting with loved ones, share traditions with younger family members, including stories of how these traditions came to be.
#9.) Consider getting a pet.
Pets can provide companionship and comfort. If the winter and holiday seasons tend to cause you to withdraw from others, it may be time to consider getting a pet. Having a furry friend around can instantly boost your mood and is a great ice breaker for meeting new friends!
At Bayshire Rancho Mirage, we understand the many benefits that come with having a pet. Our Palm Springs memory care community is pet friendly and we look forward to meeting you and your furry family member!
#10.) Make a resolution to stay connected.
When making resolutions for the new year, vow to stay connected. Discuss your resolution with a few loved ones and create plans to check in with each other.
Whether you choose to catch up via visit, video call, or a quick message now and then, having an intentional plan to keep in touch regularly can help you stay connected beyond the holiday season.
Find Palm Springs Memory Care
At Bayshire Rancho Mirage, we believe that everyone deserves to feel connected and cherished during the holidays and year-round. Our luxurious, resort-style community offers a range of care levels, including memory care services for seniors with dementia.
In addition to convenient services and unique amenities, we also offer exciting programs and events that strengthen current abilities, provide educational opportunities, and invite socialization with other residents.
We invite you to explore all that we have to offer and discover the warmth and compassion of our community. Happy holidays, and we hope to welcome you and your loved ones soon!
