The holiday season can be a challenging time for new nursing home residents adjusting to their new environment. But at Mission Health Communities, we see this as an opportunity to bring warmth, joy, and a sense of belonging to our residents and their families. Together, we can make the holidays magical, ensuring everyone feels at home and cared for.
Here are some inspiring ideas that bring the holiday spirit to life in our communities:
Hosting a Festive Holiday Party
The holidays are all about connection. Encourage your community to host a themed holiday party—like an ugly sweater contest or a cookie bakeoff—that invites residents and their families to join in the fun. Plan activities for all ages to foster meaningful moments. For residents, the gift of time spent with friends and family is priceless and fills the season with joy and togetherness.
Holiday Craft Workshop: DIY Ornaments
Unleash residents’ creativity with a festive ornament-making workshop! Sharing a variety of materials—glitter, ribbons, and paint—for residents to craft ornaments that reflect their unique personalities. These decorations brighten rooms or adorn the community tree, showcasing their creativity while sparking warm holiday memories.
Gingerbread House Decorating Competition
Who doesn’t love a good gingerbread challenge? Gingerbread house kits, icing, candies, and other decorations, add a team of residents to craft their edible masterpieces. Capture their creations and share photos on your community’s social media to spread the cheer. This beloved tradition fosters collaboration, creativity, and lots of laughter!
Creating a Holiday Sensory Experience
For residents with mobility challenges or cognitive impairments, a multi-sensory holiday experience can be magical. Transform your community into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, soothing holiday music, and comforting seasonal scents like cinnamon or fresh pine. Set up sensory stations with textures to touch, treats to taste, and festive decorations to see. These experiences can spark joy and relaxation, making the holidays feel even more special.
Celebrating December Birthdays
December-born residents deserve their moment to shine amidst the holiday festivities! Combine holiday and birthday celebrations with themed cakes, special decorations, and extra attention to make December babies feel cherished. These little touches show how much we care.
At Mission Health Communities, the holidays are an opportunity to embody our CARES values—Character, Attitude, Respect, Excellence, and Service—and create unforgettable moments for our residents. With smiles, laughter, and a touch of holiday magic, we can make this season one to remember for everyone in our care.
Let’s spread joy, build connections, and make this holiday season the brightest one yet!
How are you planning to celebrate the holidays with the seniors in your life? Share your ideas with us!
