Think about lonely seniors this season
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 05/12/2015 (3954 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Dear Miss Lonelyhearts: At this time of the year, we give a lot of thought to children, families and entertainment, but how many of us even give a passing thought to all the old people in society, many tucked away in nursing homes, care centres and seniors complexes? A seniors centre, no matter how well-intentioned, is devoid of children, youth and middle-aged people. Most senior citizens would like to see more of their family members on a regular basis. There is nothing so lonely as a holiday season for someone whose family has forgotten them.
Forget the “conscience gifts” that might appear in a five-minute visit a day or two before some special holiday. Most seniors are smarter than you may think. How about really paying attention to some of the seniors in your life, such as the mother who always had your comfort and care in mind, the father who shared his skills with you long after you were on your own or the aunt who encouraged you, praised you and backed you up.
How about taking out some older person who has neither the wheels nor the confidence to go out on their own? You can take them on a shopping trip, a lunch date for two, a holiday-lights tour or a theatre performance, to throw out just a few ideas.
Or, if that’s not feasible, just go and visit anyone you might have been neglecting. Make it special by arranging a date and be sure to take flowers or something to show your appreciation.
— Real Giving To Seniors, Winnipeg
Dear Real Giving: Thank you for writing. You have certainly clarified what people can do to contribute to a real feeling of happiness and caring for our senior family members, neighbours and friends. Even if you can’t get the person out, you can organize a game around a table, bring in some holiday foods and have some fun. It sure beats, “Hi, how are you? Uhhhh, well, here’s your gift. We’ve got to go now.”
But that doesn’t mean you should skip the gift your senior relative can show around to people. It’s not nice to get nothing from your family at times when everybody else gets gifts.
Please send your questions and comments to lovecoach@hotmail.com or Miss Lonelyhearts c/o the Winnipeg Free Press, 1355 Mountain Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R2X 3B6
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