The holidays are a wonderful time to come together and experience the magic of the season. For those Hoosiers in palliative care or hospice care, celebrations often feel different than they used to be; there can be a wide experience of emotions. Here are six ways to support your loved one through the holiday season.
6 Ways to Provide Caregiving Support for Loved Ones in
Palliative or Hospice Care
1. Spend Time Together
Carving out time to be with your loved one communicates care and is a tangible way to spread joy. Watching a favorite holiday movie or telling stories about past holiday gatherings can be a very comforting way to receive love.
2. Plan Family Gatherings With Patient Needs in Mind
There’s little better than being surrounded by the people you love. Even if your loved one isn’t up for lots of talking or activity, simply being in the same vicinity as others may be the highlight of the season.
When planning a gathering make sure to consider sensory issues the patient might have. Too much light, loud noises and more can cause some patients to become agitated. Be sure to consider the right environment for them.
Plan your gathering at a space that can accommodate any special needs. Does your loved one require a wheelchair? You’ll need to plan for stairs and space for the wheel chair to move. Will there be an oxygen tank or other modifications that you need to consider. Every patient and has different needs
3. Give A Cozy Blanket
A cozy blanket (or warm slippers or a heating pad … you get the idea) communicates the love and warmth you feel for your loved one. Combine this with a note that expresses your feelings for them, and this is a gift that shows forethought and care.
4. Share A Few Luxurious Personal Care Products
A thick lotion, a long lasting lip balm or a moisturizing hand soap can be especially welcomed in the cold holiday months. Throw in a hand or foot massage and this becomes a wonderful hands-on gift that your loved one is sure to enjoy.
5. Give A Candle
Candles add a warm ambiance to any room. If an open flame is a concern, there are realistic LED options available. If your loved one has a favorite scent that helps sooth them, a scented candle can be a fun option.
6. Create New Traditions
The 6-course holiday dinner may be out of reach for your loved one to attend, but what about passing a tray of appetizers while people gather around your loved one’s favorite chair? Don’t be afraid to modify long-standing traditions into something that is more relevant to the current circumstances.
We hope you have a holiday season filled with love, friends and family. If you need any hospice or palliative care support in Indiana this Holiday season, please contact our compassionate caregiving team at 317-735-6001.
