Home for the Holidays

The changing color on the trees, the cool crispness in the air and holidays with loved ones are all my favorite things. It is also one of the busiest times for families and senior advisors. As we gather together to celebrate and see our families during the holiday season, it is a good opportunity to take a moment to assess any changes in our loved ones that have gone overlooked. We live very busy lives and it can be difficult to pay attention to subtle changes in a senior’s day to day condition or to detect growing needs over the phone. I advise families to take a moment around the kitchen table and check in with their parents on any challenges that they may be facing. It is important to be sensitive and show respect, and in a loving manner, express your desire to help with any problems while visiting.

Here are some areas of concerns:

  • Changes in eating habits or weight loss?
  • Neglected personal hygiene, dirty clothes, and unkempt hair?
  • Home is not as clean as usual or spoiled food in the refrigerator?
  • Exhibiting forgetfulness, unopened mail, medication not taken, or bills unpaid?
  • More quiet than usual, easily overwhelmed or tired by company?

It is very tempting and easy to go online and search for help and advice but be very careful about online registrations. Unlike regulated healthcare providers, online placement agencies and senior care communities are not obligated or legally bound to protect your privacy. In fact, more and more clients are telling us that they are being inundated with sales calls and emails after mistakenly giving out their contact information. Avoid filling out any and all forms! Senior Provisions promises to never share contact information without your knowledge or permission!

The holidays are a great time to reconnect and enjoy being a family, but it is also a good time to slow down and the senior around you is having any struggles. Be observant and if you see any warning signs, please reach out to us for help and advice. Senior Provisions wishes everyone a joyful and safe holiday season!

Geriatric Psychiatry Outpatient Services don’t just benefit the seniors themselves; they also provide support to families and caregivers. Caring for an older adult with mental health concerns can be emotionally taxing, and these services offer guidance, education, and resources to help caregivers navigate the challenges effectively.

By: Amy Hentschel, Senior Care Advisor

For more information, call: 1-888-979-8783 or go to

The Geriatric Psychiatry Outpatient Services provide comprehensive services for adults ages 65 and older with depression, anxiety, and cognitive function disorders. Our array of outpatient programs offer individual and group therapy, incorporating diagnostic evaluation.

Featured Services