Celebrating Christmas with Family and Friends

There is no doubt that 2020 has presented some new challenges that many people had to adjust to rather quickly. However, as the year comes to a close and there are holiday celebrations to be had, many seniors may be wondering how to celebrate or if it’s even safe to do so.

Fellowship Square offers the following tips in accordance with CDC guidelines and recommendations:

Keep it Small —

When it comes to holiday gatherings the CDC website recommends limiting the number of attendees from different households, and to social distance (“remain at least six feet apart at all times). The site also states, “Guests should avoid direct contact, including handshakes and hugs, with others not from their household.”

Stay within the “Pod” —

Many families and small groups that have been together since the onset of the pandemic have referred to their group as a “pod.” And overall its best to limit contact with people that have been in contact with lots of other people (especially is seniors aren’t sure if they’ve been following social distancing, regular mask wearing, and hygiene practices). So in the name of staying stay, staying within seniors’ “pods” this Christmas just might mean the gift of health this season.

Take it Outside —

The good thing about Phoenix is that the weather during the Christmas season is still nice enough to enjoy gatherings outside! So in the name of safety, bundle up and take the Christmas celebrations outside! A large patio, a park or even the end of a neighborhood cul-de-sac are all great places to gather (not too close!) for a Christmas celebration with loved ones while maintaining a distance.

Wear a Mask —

Wearing a mask has been shown to help mitigate the spread of the virus. So it should be worn pretty much anytime seniors are in contact with anyone else. This is particularly the case when seeing friends of family outside their “pod” or in less ventilated areas. When indoors, keeping windows or doors open, if possible, to help encourage natural air circulation is another good safety tip the CDC recommends.

Staying connected to friends and family during the holiday season is so important. But so is health and safety! So in the case of high risk groups (which seniors tend to fall into), extra precaution should be taken. Consider a Zoom call, Facetime chats or other ways to connect while staying apart this season. This can be hard, especially for seniors that haven’t been able to see family and friends much this year. However, taking advantage of technology to stay in touch can be helpful. Fellowship Square encourages seniors to reach out to family and friends even if only through a phone call or email if they are feeling nostalgic about the way holidays used to be this season, and their staff reminds seniors that no one is ever really alone in the hands of God. So if feeling lonely or sad, send God a prayer — He is always listening.