The holidays are a time for family gathering, festivity and fun. This time of year is also ideal for vacations: kids are out of school, we have time off of work and warmer climates beckon us away from winter. If you are thinking of taking some vacation time over the holidays, here are some ways to consider the care and well-being of the seniors in your life.

It is important to ensure that seniors continue receiving proper care and don’t go without companionship over the holidays. At Daughter for a Day, we often see an unfortunate situation arise at this time of year. Families like to go away skiing or someplace warm and it is difficult for elderly loved ones because they cannot always go. A poignant Loneliness and vulnerability can result when seniors are without companionship. This is particularly noteworthy over the holiday season.

Consider everyone’s needs and plan a vacation accommodating those. If it is just a trip away from the city that you seek, not necessarily somewhere distant or rustic, perhaps loved seniors can join. Think through the travel plans, and assess potential difficulties, like long or cramped flights, the size of rental vehicles, and accessibility and access to amenities. Maybe a trip closer to home a good option. If you decide to fly with the whole family, here are some tips that can make the flight easier.

If you do decide to travel without seniors, there are many things you can do to ensure they are properly cared for and have a holiday cheer.

• Communicate: Where will you go? When you will return? Leave your travel itinerary and the phone number(s) where you can be reached.
• Make sure all prescriptions are filled through the end of your vacation. Stock up on groceries and get some holiday treats too!
• Arrange for any transportation needs that might arise such as a trip to the grocery store or a doctor’s appointment.
• Hire an in-home care agency to look after your loved ones until you return. Daughter for a Day, for example, offers services ranging from light house keeping to live in care, depending on needs.
• Ask other family or trusted friends to visit while you are away.
• Call them while you are gone.
• Plan special activities that give senior(s) something to look forward to such as arranging for a family friend or neighbor to take your loved one to dinner or for a walk.
• Visit a lot before you go and when you return.

Each situation is unique; the important thing is to keep the well-being of the seniors in your life in mind and make a plan for their care while you are gone.

However you decide to vacation this year, take care of the details to make the seniors in you life feel appreciated during this holiday season. After all, the holidays are a time for family and gathering and sharing.