- Always call before you visit so they are expecting you.
- Notice the front steps and the driveway. Do they need to be shoveled?
- Is the house warm enough?
- Is the elderly person dressed warmly enough?
- Is there evidence that other people have visited or are staying in touch? Do you notice recent letters of photos from friends?
- Observe whether there seems to be enough food in the kitchen or refrigerator.
- Bring a holiday gift of food (medical diet permitting) like homemade Christmas cookies or candies. This makes the visit more festive.
- Provide a small religious remembrance or ornament that can be kept to remember the visit.
- Bring your parish bulletin, schedule of Christmas services, or times and channels of TV Masses when you visit. Make sure the person feels a part of your faith community.
- As always, provide a non-judgmental listening ear that allows the person to reminisce about past events.
- Do not avoid conversations of sadness, but allow the person an opportunity to verbalize. They will feel better knowing that someone has listened.
- Ask specifically how they will be spending the Thanksgiving or Christmas holiday. If they do not choose to be alone, arrange for them to be included in some social event or provide rides for Christmas services. Consider inviting them to your own family’s celebration.
- Don’t forget to say a little prayer with them if it seems appropriate. One “Hail Mary” is just fine.
- Stay in touch!
