While the holidays conjure images of festive gatherings with family, special meals lovingly prepared, and gifts beautifully wrapped, Paula Lett knows that’s often not the case for the elderly.

As the social services manager for Care Resources PACE, she sees firsthand the grief, emptiness, and stress the holidays can bring to those who are aging–but it doesn’t have to be that way.

“Television promotes that loving family with everyone gathered around a tree with presents, which isn’t reality in many people’s lives,” Lett explains. “Not everyone has strong ties to family or happy associations of the holidays. Seniors do experience a lot of loss and grief at this time and are at higher risk for suicide during the holidays.

“Before, they were the ones who ran the holidays and now they’re on the outside looking in. They might be in a facility and not getting many visits. They may not feel a sense of welcome.”

Lett and her team at Care Resources PACE take special steps around the holidays to make sure participants feel loved and supported. The nonprofit provides holistic, wraparound support for people 55 years and older to promote healthy and independent living–and keep them out of nursing homes.

Click here to review the list of suggestions Lett provides to make the holidays brighter and more meaningful for elderly family members, neighbors, or friends.

Last updated 12.16.24 | H5610_WEB