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Respect your elders this season by practicing the ‘Golden Rule’

The best gift you can give to an elderly loved one who is experiencing “holiday blues” is simply letting them know you care.

“Grief, illness and loneliness can intensify normal feelings of seasonal despair,” said Dr. Robert E. Roush of the Huffington Center on Aging at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. “We should acknowledge that seniors may be sensing a different experience this year than the rest of us.”

Roush advises family and friends to practice the “Golden Rule” this holiday season.

“Treat elderly loved ones the way you would like to be treated in the future,” he said.

According to Roush, a majority of elderly Americans 85 years of age and older are women living alone. Because these individuals are outliving their spouses, peers or, in some cases, children, they will greatly appreciate small efforts of goodwill from their family and friends.

“Invite them to a seasonal event or send them a holiday card,” he said. “Even a simple phone call will let them know they are in your thoughts.”

Roush also suggests:

Send a homemade gift. Avoid giving elaborate presents because they may feel obligated to reciprocate.

Ask them how they are doing and let them know that you are there for them.

Recognize that seniors from different cultures may feel depressed during their religious holidays, particularly if they are far removed from others of similar backgrounds.

If they are experiencing the first holiday after losing a loved one, encourage them to remember the good times they shared.

If depression persists, suggest they see a mental health professional.

In addition to small acts of kindness, seniors who live in long-term care facilities will enjoy visits from friends, family members and volunteers. These activities can be particularly therapeutic to visitors as well as residents, said Roush.

“Each older person is a ‘page of history,’ and by hearing their life story, you are letting them enjoy the reverie of their days in the sun,” he said. “At the same time, the younger volunteer gets a glimpse of his or her future and has time to see what they can do to maximize their potential for a long life well-lived."