How to Include Older Adults in the Christmas Holidays: Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Together

Activities for Seniors  |  December 15, 2025

The holiday season is always associated with family connection, warmth, and tradition, but for many older adults, especially those who live alone or face mobility or memory challenges, the holidays can also be a source of isolation and emotional lows. As Ottawa families begin to prepare for gatherings, it is important to ensure that older adults feel included, valued, and able to enjoy the festivities according to their abilities and preferences.

Whether you are planning a family celebration or helping an older loved one through home care services, Comfort Keepers Ottawa will help you put together the perfect strategy to help make the holidays more joyful and inclusive for the seniors in your life.

1. Start with their traditions and preferences

Including older adults begins with honoring the traditions that matter most to them. Ask them about the holiday rituals they enjoyed as children and when they were caring for their own children: special recipes, songs, religious services, or decorations. Even small gestures, such as displaying a cherished ornament or preparing their favorite dessert, can spark joy and create a sense of continuity.

Tip: If your loved one lives in a retirement community or receives in-home care, consider bringing familiar holiday items to their space to make it feel festive and personal.

2. Suggest activities that everyone can participate in regardless of their abilities.

Holiday gatherings can be overwhelming for older adults who experience fatigue, limited mobility, hearing loss, or cognitive changes. Look for activities that are easy, inclusive, and adaptable.

Some holiday activities that are suitable for older adults include:

• Decorating cookies together.
• Listening to classic holiday music.
• Watching nostalgic Christmas movies.
• Doing simple crafts or making decorations.
• Reading Christmas stories aloud.
• Enjoying a cup of hot chocolate while looking at the lights.

Remember: the goal is not to have a busy schedule or check items off an imaginary list. Christmas celebrations are special because they celebrate the quality time that remains in the family’s memories.

3. Modify the environment for comfort and safety.

A busy home can be challenging for older adults. To help them participate comfortably:

• Ensure that seating is sturdy and provides good support.
• Keep hallways clear of cords, decorations that obstruct passage, and clutter.
• Maintain good lighting.
• Reduce background noise whenever possible.
• Provide quiet spaces for resting.

If you are expecting a large gathering, consider inviting your elderly loved one for a quieter, earlier visit, or arrange for a caregiver to assist them throughout the event. At Comfort Keppers Ottawa, we can take care of that for you.

4. Involve them in Christmas preparations.

Older people enjoy feeling useful, and this happens when they have a role to play. Even the smallest tasks can give them a sense of purpose and joy:

• Folding napkins or writing Christmas cards.
• Sharing family recipes.
• Helping wrap gifts.
• Choosing music or decorations.
• Guiding younger family members in traditions.

These moments also create meaningful intergenerational bonds.

5. Make social connections a priority.

Loneliness tends to increase during the winter months, especially among older adults who live alone. If your loved one is unable to attend gatherings, bring the celebration to them:

• Schedule video calls with family members.
• Arrange for short but frequent in-person visits.
• Bring children over to sing carols or show off holiday crafts.
• Encourage neighbors to stop by and say hello.
• Arrange visits from volunteers or companionship services.

For Ottawa families with busy schedules, professional caregivers from Comfort Keepers can provide companionship and keep seniors active during the holidays.

6. Consider dietary needs and medical routines.

Holiday meals may require adjustments for seniors with diabetes, heart conditions, or swallowing difficulties. Offer familiar, easy-to-eat options, and avoid asking them to explain their dietary restrictions in front of the group.

Also, keep medication schedules consistent holidays can easily disrupt routines, so a caregiver or family member should ensure that nothing is missed.

7. Support them in their emotional needs

Christmas can bring up feelings of sadness or nostalgia in older adults who have lost spouses, siblings, friends, or lifelong traditions. Encourage conversations about past holidays, favorite memories, and loved ones who are no longer here.

Listening attentively can make older adults feel seen, understood, and deeply valued.

8. Consider seeking professional help when necessary.

If your elderly loved one needs help getting around, personal care, or companionship, a home caregiver can help make the holidays safer and more enjoyable. In Ottawa, where winter weather can be an added challenge, Comfort Keepers home care ensures that your loved one can continue to participate in activities without the risk of falls, fatigue, or stress.

Caregivers can help with:

• Transportation to holiday events.
• Cooking and meal preparation.
• Medication reminders.
• Companionship and social engagement.
• Mobility and safety supervision.
• Light decorating and preparations.
• Professional care does not replace family involvement, but rather enhances it.

Including older adults in holiday celebrations is a moral obligation to the people who built everything we know today. It is also about connection, dignity, and love. With small adjustments and careful planning, we can create holidays that are joyful and meaningful for all generations.

If your family in Ottawa needs help during the holidays, the compassionate caregivers at Comfort Keepers Ottawa & Kanata can help ensure your loved one is safe, comfortable, and included in every special moment.

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