No more holiday blues: simple and heartwarming ways to lift your spirits this year
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No more holiday blues: simple and heartwarming ways to lift your spirits this year
The holidays are supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, right?
But sometimes, the season can feel more like a marathon of memories, empty chairs, and “Jingle Bells” on repeat than a Hallmark movie.
If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a blinking string of lights and feeling more blue than festive, you’re not alone—and you’re certainly not without hope.
The good news is that there are heartfelt ways to turn holiday isolation into bringing back connection, meaning, and even joy.
For many older adults, the holidays can magnify feelings of loss, distance, or change.
Maybe you’re missing a loved one, living far from family, or facing health challenges that make it tough to get out and about.
Even if you’re surrounded by people, it’s possible to feel isolated—especially when everyone else seems to be swept up in the holiday spirit.
Zita Christian, 77, of Manchester, Connecticut, knows this all too well.
After losing her husband, Dick, to Alzheimer’s, her first holiday season was a blur of grief and going through the motions. “I felt like a zombie,” she recalls.
But as time passed, the sharp edges of her loss softened, and new family traditions began to take root.
“There’s a whole new cycle of relationships happening in our family. That’s a very positive thing and gives me hope during the holidays.”
Social isolation can have real, serious health consequences. According to a 2024 Harvard study, nearly one in four Americans over 65 is socially isolated.
The US Surgeon General has even called loneliness an epidemic, linking it to higher risks of heart disease, dementia, stroke, depression, and even premature death.
In fact, being socially disconnected can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day!
So, what can you do to protect your health and your happiness this holiday season? Let’s unwrap some practical, proven ways to bring more connection and joy into your life.
Check your local newspaper, library bulletin board, or community Facebook group for listings. Even a small outing can lift your spirits and introduce you to new friends.
Many organizations need extra hands during the holidays, and some even offer remote opportunities if you prefer to help from home.
Pick up the phone, send a card, or ask a family member to set up regular check-ins. You might be surprised how much others appreciate the nudge to connect.
Host a virtual cookie-baking session, share a meal over video, or join an online book club. If you’re new to technology, ask a friend or local library for a quick tutorial—most are happy to help.
Or volunteer to walk dogs or cuddle cats at your local animal rescue. You’ll get out, meet people, and maybe even find a new best friend.
The Eldercare Locator (800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov) can help you find reputable services in your area.
Instead, use it to send messages, share photos, or join interest-based groups where you can interact more personally.
Sites like Senior Planet, Meetup, and AARP’s online community offer a smorgasbord of activities tailored for older adults. Try something new—you might discover a hidden talent or a new friend.
Even attending a holiday play or helping with a children’s activity can bring a sense of belonging and joy.
Journaling, crafting, or simply taking a walk can help you reconnect with yourself and find meaning in the season.
Also read: A menu for the heart: Finding comfort, connection, and care this holiday season
Holiday loneliness is real, but it doesn’t have to define your season.
Whether you’re reaching out, giving back, or simply treating yourself with extra care, every small step counts.
Remember, it’s okay to feel what you feel—and it’s also okay to seek out new ways to bring light into your life.
Read next:
Have you found a creative way to beat the holiday blues? Do you have a favorite tradition, a volunteering story, or a tip for staying connected? Your wisdom could be the gift someone else needs this year.
The holidays are supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, right?
But sometimes, the season can feel more like a marathon of memories, empty chairs, and “Jingle Bells” on repeat than a Hallmark movie.
If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a blinking string of lights and feeling more blue than festive, you’re not alone—and you’re certainly not without hope.
The good news is that there are heartfelt ways to turn holiday isolation into bringing back connection, meaning, and even joy.
For many older adults, the holidays can magnify feelings of loss, distance, or change.
Maybe you’re missing a loved one, living far from family, or facing health challenges that make it tough to get out and about.
Even if you’re surrounded by people, it’s possible to feel isolated—especially when everyone else seems to be swept up in the holiday spirit.
Zita Christian, 77, of Manchester, Connecticut, knows this all too well.
After losing her husband, Dick, to Alzheimer’s, her first holiday season was a blur of grief and going through the motions. “I felt like a zombie,” she recalls.
But as time passed, the sharp edges of her loss softened, and new family traditions began to take root.
“There’s a whole new cycle of relationships happening in our family. That’s a very positive thing and gives me hope during the holidays.”
Social isolation can have real, serious health consequences. According to a 2024 Harvard study, nearly one in four Americans over 65 is socially isolated.
The US Surgeon General has even called loneliness an epidemic, linking it to higher risks of heart disease, dementia, stroke, depression, and even premature death.
In fact, being socially disconnected can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day!
So, what can you do to protect your health and your happiness this holiday season? Let’s unwrap some practical, proven ways to bring more connection and joy into your life.
1. Get Out and About—Locally or Virtually
Community centers, libraries, and faith groups often host holiday events, from craft workshops to concerts and cooking classes. Not up for crowds? Many offer online options, too.Check your local newspaper, library bulletin board, or community Facebook group for listings. Even a small outing can lift your spirits and introduce you to new friends.
2. Give Back by Volunteering
Nothing warms the heart like helping others. Whether you’re serving meals at a shelter, knitting hats for newborns, or writing letters to deployed service members, volunteering connects you to a bigger purpose—and to other caring people.Many organizations need extra hands during the holidays, and some even offer remote opportunities if you prefer to help from home.
3. Reach Out—Don’t Wait for Others to Call
It’s easy to assume people are too busy, but sometimes they just don’t realize you’d love a chat or a visit.Pick up the phone, send a card, or ask a family member to set up regular check-ins. You might be surprised how much others appreciate the nudge to connect.
4. Embrace Technology (Yes, Really!)
Video calls aren’t just for the grandkids. Platforms like Zoom, FaceTime, or Google Meet can bring family and friends right into your living room.Host a virtual cookie-baking session, share a meal over video, or join an online book club. If you’re new to technology, ask a friend or local library for a quick tutorial—most are happy to help.
5. Consider a Furry (or Feathered) Friend
Pets are proven mood-boosters and loyal companions. If you’re not ready for a long-term commitment, many shelters offer “holiday fostering” programs.Or volunteer to walk dogs or cuddle cats at your local animal rescue. You’ll get out, meet people, and maybe even find a new best friend.
6. Hire a Helping Hand
Sometimes a little extra support can make all the difference. Home health aides or companions can help with holiday decorating, baking, or just provide some friendly conversation.The Eldercare Locator (800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov) can help you find reputable services in your area.
7. Use Social Media—Wisely
Social media can be a double-edged candy cane. It’s a great way to keep up with family and friends, but if scrolling leaves you feeling left out, it’s okay to take a break.Instead, use it to send messages, share photos, or join interest-based groups where you can interact more personally.
8. Find Online Communities and Activities
The internet is full of ways to connect: online classes, virtual game nights, jigsaw puzzle groups, and more.Sites like Senior Planet, Meetup, and AARP’s online community offer a smorgasbord of activities tailored for older adults. Try something new—you might discover a hidden talent or a new friend.
9. Lean Into Your Community
Faith-based groups, senior centers, and neighborhood associations can be lifelines during the holidays. Many host special events, volunteer opportunities, and support groups.Even attending a holiday play or helping with a children’s activity can bring a sense of belonging and joy.
10. Practice Self-Care and Create Your Own Traditions
Sometimes, the best company is your own. Treat yourself kindly: cook a favorite meal, watch a beloved holiday movie, or start a new tradition just for you.Journaling, crafting, or simply taking a walk can help you reconnect with yourself and find meaning in the season.
Also read: A menu for the heart: Finding comfort, connection, and care this holiday season
Holiday loneliness is real, but it doesn’t have to define your season.
Whether you’re reaching out, giving back, or simply treating yourself with extra care, every small step counts.
Remember, it’s okay to feel what you feel—and it’s also okay to seek out new ways to bring light into your life.
Read next:
- The powerful impact holidays can have on seniors
- 10 easy holiday traditions to make the season special at any age
