VALENTINE’S DAY IS ANOTHER GREAT TIME OF THE YEAR TO EXPRESS OUR LOVE FOR OTHERS!
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Valentine’s Day is a holiday set aside to recognize love of all types. However, for senior citizens, it can serve as a sad reminder about a love who has passed away.
If you have an aging loved one in your life you suspect will be feeling lonely and sad on Valentine’s Day, below are some ways you can help them to feel comforted and gently remind them of the many others who love them.
First, at times like these, it is important that your elderly loved one spends time with their family. Take the time to sit down with your loved ones and help them to fondly reminisce about the love of their life. Let them know it’s OK to pull out those photos, love letters, and vivid memories and share them anytime they feel the need to talk about it. If you know your loved one had a particular Valentine’s Day tradition with their spouse, such as visiting a favorite place, ask if they would be interested in continuing the tradition with other family members.
Next, you can make Valentine’s Day more festive for your loved ones by decorating their home or assisted living facility. Some nursing homes will have scheduled Valentine’s Day activities for seniors. If your senior lives in a nursing facility, be sure to call and see if they have senior activities planned or if you can surprise them with a Valentine’s Day gift or visit.
Finally, consider ways that you can keep your loved ones occupied with an enjoyable activity as a way to beat the blues.
