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ElderCare Transitions

Talking about Holidays & Reminiscing

November 22, 2016 · 488 Comments

Let’s talk about…Holidays & Reminiscing.

It’s no surprise that as the holidays near, older family members like to reminisce about the past.  Funny stories, favorite memories, most loved traditions are all a part of the holiday season and the special place the holidays hold in their hearts. 

While Mom and/or Dad may be content to reminisce, you may be feeling the stress and anxiety that frequently accompany the preparation for the holidays. Your idea of reminiscing may be muttering “Please don’t let me forget to thaw the turkey like I did two years ago” or “Remember when Uncle Mark showed up an hour late and forgot to bring the wine?” You may fill in the blank___________ with what may add stress to your holiday gatherings.

There is no doubt that the frenetic pace of our lives can make for stress throughout the holiday season.  Generations blended for a holiday gathering can add to the stress:

  • Mom & Dad may be less helpful but still want to feel needed
  • College age children want to visit with friends they haven’t seen for weeks – not hang with “the old people”
  • High schoolers and “tweens” are busy with their social schedule(s) and social media is always calling
  • Youngsters may be enamored with the newest video games available for hours of entertainment

So NOW, let’s get back to the idea of reminiscing – and how it can be a powerful and wonderful way to reach across the generations.

  • Talk about the family recipes or food traditions – and have mom/dad talk about how the traditions were started when they were children.
  • Go through family picture albums or scrapbooks – and talk about how special those times were.  Perhaps even share the memories of how each of you felt as your family continued to grow.
  • Share thoughts of thankfulness and gratitude at the dinner table.

However you choose to reminisce with your older loved ones, know that reminiscing is a meaningful and powerful way for them to feel that their age and wisdom are appreciated and valued…that their voice is still being heard.  That may be the greatest gift they receive this season – someone to listen as they reminisce.

If you would like more ideas of how to make that happen, let’s talk!

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