Active Aging: Gift an aging senior with your time this holiday season

by Stacey Glemser

 ‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all thro’ the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

Well, thank goodness for that—nobody wants to see a mouse loose in the house! But during the holidays we do want to see our loved ones, and that includes our gracefully aging seniors.

It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, going from one event to another and focusing on checking items off of our (naughty or nice) shopping list. Often we find ourselves too busy to take the time to truly be present with our loved ones. How can we possibly be everywhere with so little time? Frequently, the reality is that the stress of the holiday season—no matter how we choose to celebrate it—can wreak havoc on our mind, body, and soul.

Remind yourself it’s okay to take a break and spend some time with your loved ones, your friends, your neighbors, and your community. Sadly, some seniors in our community will be spending the holidays without their loved ones. Now is the time for us to stop and be with our elders and to make plans to share our time with others.

Below are some helpful tips on how you can help make a senior’s holiday extra special this year.

• Open your Home: Invite a senior, or seniors, to your home a holiday celebration or a random small gathering.
• Consider a “How Ya Doin’” Check-in: Stop in and visit with your elderly neighbors, even if it is just to say “Hi!”
• Prepare a Meal: Make your loved ones their favorite meal, and think about taking a home-cooked meal to a senior neighbor or asking the neighbor over for dinner.
• Help with Winter Prep: Help a senior prepare for the winter by assisting with putting summer stuff up and bringing their winter necessities out.
• Be of General Assistance: Many seniors struggle with the ever-changing world around them. Offering your assistance in getting the hang of technology or navigating doctors’ appointments could make a world of difference for a senior.
• Promote Connections: Make sure seniors in your family and your senior acquaintances know about the Stockbridge Area Senior Center (SASC). It’s a wonderful place for seniors to connect with other seniors and members of our community. The Center offers many different activities and ways to find new connections. Participating can help build lasting relationships and a wonderful support system where they focus on seniors first.
• Volunteer: The SASC will open its doors to your volunteerism. The Center has many volunteer opportunities and accepts volunteers of all ages. Also, check with the Tri County Office on Aging for other opportunities to volunteer your time with our community seniors.

Happy Holidays to all, and to all a good night!

Stacey Glemser is vice president of the board of directors of the Stockbridge Area Senior Center (SASC)—a great place to spend time. Visit stockbridgeareaseniors.org or call 517-480-0353 for information.

The Stockbridge Area Senior Center on Elm Street is a great place to spend time in the lead-up to the holidays. Photo credit: Dana Blaszkowski

SASC staff, along with some of the Center’s members, celebrating the holidays together in 2022. Photo credit: Dana Blaszkowski