If you’re looking for that jaw dropping gift, this is NOT the post for you. Instead this is about small acts of kindness that may not seem like much, but can truly make the Holidays special. Last week I shared ideas on giving of your time and talents to help nonprofits. Today I’m sharing ideas of everyday acts of kindness for senior family members and older friends.
Errands: Before heading to the store to do your own errands call and ask if there is anything you can pick up for them. You could even offer them a ride to go with you. Also while purchasing stamps pick up a sheet for them because who doesn’t need stamps this time of year? Save them from needing to go out to do that extra errand.
Walk This Way: If you know of an older friend with a dog, offer to take that pet out for a quick walk on those icy messy days, or when the temperatures are bone chilling.
Do the Heavy Lifting: Also for dog owners help move those heavy bags of dog food. Even if someone gets them delivered, there is the task of getting it from the front door to where it will be stored. Or offer to help get heavy boxes stored away in their home to aid in decorating for the Holidays. Some older friends would love decking the halls, but they are just not up to getting those decorations up on their own. And remember to come back after the Holidays to help put those decorations back safe where they belong!
Clean Sweep: Helping with the cleanup after a storm is great. What also is great and not often considered is taking a few moments to help with the vacuuming or mopping the floors inside their home. Changing a lightbulb or replacing aging smoke detector batteries are also simple tasks that can make a world of difference.
Cruising on a Sunday Afternoon: If you’re going for a drive to look at the Holiday lights and decorations, ask a senior friend if they’d like to go with you. Driving at night can be difficult for some, but they’d still love to see the twinkling lights. Or invite them to join you if you’re headed to a seasonal event.
Dinner Delivered: If you’re making a special meal or even just your average dinner, cook a little extra to drop off at their home. Desserts are great too. A home cooked meal for someone living alone can brighten someone’s day, even if you’re not the greatest chef.
Checking In: Take the time to call and let them know you’re thinking about them. And when sending Christmas cards, take a moment to write a note. Remember not everyone is on social media, and they’d love to hear from you. If you have a well-behaved dog, who won’t risk a fall or injury, ask if they’d like a visit with a fluffy friend. Petting a dog can greatly reduce stress, and also bring back cherished memories of a pet.
Caring for the Caregiver: And if you know of someone caring for a loved one, offer to help so they can have a little time off to recharge, go someplace they’ve been wanting to visit, or even just to get their own errands done. Also take the time to listen. Caring for a loved one can be a very emotional and isolating experience. Show them you care by taking time for them.
These may not be the big moments they show on TV commercials or go viral on social media, but simple acts of kindness can go a long way to making the Holidays, and all year long, brighter for senior family members and older friends.
