The holiday season can bring as much stress as joy for those caring for aging loved ones. To help ease the burden, Mosaic, a nonprofit foundation dedicated to improving the quality of life for seniors in southern New Jersey, has released The Family Caregiver’s Guide to the Holidays, a free resource offering practical tips to help caregivers manage the season with balance and peace of mind.
“It’s easy for caregivers to get caught up in trying to make the holidays special for everyone else,” said Jason Goldstein, board president, Mosaic. “Our goal is to remind them that they deserve care and connection too. This guide offers simple, real-world strategies to make the season more meaningful for both caregivers and their loved ones.”
According to the National Alliance for Caregiving, 53 million Americans — nearly one in five — serve as unpaid caregivers. Many of them also balance their caregiving responsibilities with work, parenting, and household management. For them, the holidays can bring added emotional and physical demands. To help caregivers make the most of the season, the guide shares practical strategies for reducing stress and creating meaningful moments with loved ones.
1. Start early and ask for help. Even if you don’t normally use outside support, consider hiring a caregiver or enlisting family members during the holidays. A few extra hours of help can give you time to shop, cook, wrap gifts, or simply relax.
2. Simplify your traditions. Focus on connection rather than perfection. Choose a few meaningful activities that everyone can enjoy instead of trying to do everything.
3. Schedule outings thoughtfully. Plan holiday trips or light displays during off-peak hours and be mindful of weather conditions to keep your loved one warm and comfortable.
4. Honor familiar foods. Incorporate traditional family recipes while considering dietary needs or restrictions. The comfort of familiar flavors can make the holiday meal extra special.
5. Watch for signs of burnout. Irritability, fatigue, sleeplessness, or withdrawal from enjoyable activities can indicate caregiver burnout. Reach out for support from friends, family, or community organizations if you start feeling overwhelmed.
The Family Caregiver’s Guide to the Holidays is available for download at mosaicgiving.org. Visitors to the website will also find additional resources for Alzheimer’s and dementia care, caregiver and family support, and community-based senior programs throughout southern New Jersey.
