It seems that the holidays always bring on more stress. Perhaps it’s because this is when family members get together most. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah or the host of other holidays occurring this time of year, it can be difficult from a variety of perspectives. Sometimes difficult because of a recent loss of a parent, brother, sister, grandmother, that special individual is conspicuously absent. Other times difficult because we see how our parents have declined and we’re concerned. However we hear the typical “we’re just fine, we don’t need any help.” I can’t tell you how often I hear this, see it in person and know that within a relatively short matter of time this person or couple is going to need a significant amount of assistance, and how often when this occurs that they and their family are unprepared for care needs and the changes that must occur. However difficult it may be planning is 90% of the battle so that when an event does occur it falls within the plan and does not occur in crises mode. Talk to your parents or family member about the future and about making a plan. Make this a gift you give yourself or to others.
Return from Holiday’s Can Lead to Increased Stress – Why? to the Caring for my Parents Home Page
