Thoughtful Ways to Host Elderly Relatives During the Festive Season

Christmas is often the most wonderful time of the year, but when you’re hosting, it can easily tip into “stress central”. Juggling food prep, gift wrapping, and trying to keep everyone happy is no small feat—especially if you’re welcoming elderly relatives into your home. Whether they’re joining for the big day or staying over the festive period, it’s important to make sure they feel comfortable, included, and still part of all the magical moments.

From planning for mobility needs to creating family activities everyone can enjoy, here’s how to make Christmas a joy for all generations this year.

Comfort First: Making Your Home Welcoming

The key to a successful Christmas is simple—comfort is everything, and this is particularly important when you’re accommodating elderly relatives. Start by thinking about their needs and how your home can adapt to provide them with a space where they feel at ease.

Prep Their Room

If your elderly relative is staying overnight, ensure their room is cosy and accessible. Think about where it’s located—ground-floor bedrooms work best for those with limited mobility. If that’s not an option, consider moving your setup temporarily or sprucing up the guest room to minimise trips up and down the stairs.

Provide plenty of blankets to keep them snug.
Add extra pillows so they can prop themselves up comfortably when resting.
Ensure good lighting—no one wants to fumble around in the dark on their way to the bathroom.

Go Mobility-Friendly

If your relatives use mobility aids such as mobility scooters or a walking aid such as a rollator, clear some space so they can move around freely without fear of bumping into furniture or tripping on rugs. You may also want to create a space for their mobility aids when they’re not in use—a designated corner or an easily accessible area works well.

Accessibility in the Bathroom

The bathroom usually needs some adjustments for elderly relatives. Consider getting simple, temporary additions like a non-slip bath mat or grab rails to make things safer for them. These minor changes can make a world of difference!

Keeping Everyone Engaged in the Festivities

Christmas is about togetherness, and one of the best ways to celebrate is by involving everyone in activities that bring the family together—no matter their age.

Festive Baking

Who doesn’t love the smell of fresh gingerbread or mince pies wafting through the house? Turn your kitchen into a Christmas bakery and get everyone involved. Seniors might enjoy mixing ingredients or supervising the decorating process. And, of course, sneaking the first taste of a freshly baked treat is a must.

Christmas Movie Marathon

There’s nothing like settling down in cosy pyjamas, armed with a cup of hot chocolate, to watch some classic Christmas movies. Pick films that spark nostalgia for the older generation, like It’s a Wonderful Life, as well as new favourites for the little ones. Bonus points if you throw in a roaring fire and fairy lights for that extra festive glow.

Christmas Light Drives

Pile the family into the car and cruise around town to see the dazzling Christmas light displays. This activity is perfect for elderly relatives because it lets them enjoy the festivities from the comfort of the car. Plus, it’s guaranteed to delight everyone, from grannies to grandkids.

Seasonal Crafting

Set up a small crafting station for making Christmas cards or decorating ornaments. This is a gentle activity that’s perfect for elderly relatives, giving them a hands-on way to contribute to the festivities while spending quality time with family.

Food for Thought

Food is the heart (and stomach) of every Christmas celebration, but it’s important to think about dietary needs or preferences when hosting elderly relatives.

Serve Smaller Portions & Options: For relatives with smaller appetites, offer lighter nibbles like a warming bowl of soup or some festive finger food.
Account for Dietary Restrictions: Whether it’s low-sugar desserts or gluten-free bread, accommodating their preferences makes everyone feel cared for.
Offer a Festive Drink (Non-Alcoholic Too!): Don’t forget to include non-alcoholic options like mulled cider or spiced hot chocolate so everyone can raise a glass!

Little Touches That Make a Big Difference

Sometimes, it’s the smaller gestures that leave the biggest impression.

Create Downtime: Elderly relatives might need short breaks to recharge, especially during energetic family gatherings. Set aside some quiet time—this is when they can rest or enjoy a peaceful moment.
Help Them Feel Included: Sometimes, relatives need a nudge to join in. If they’re sitting out, strike up a conversation, share a funny story, or ask for their advice—whether it’s about the turkey or their own favourite Christmas traditions.
Don’t Forget the Music: Playing traditional carols or crooning Frank Sinatra hits in the background can make everything feel wonderfully festive and familiar.

Show Them the Care They Showed You

If you think about it, many of us have fond Christmas memories thanks to these very relatives hosting us in years gone by. Hosting them is your chance to return some of that love and create new cherished memories they’ll hold on to.

A little planning ahead can go a long way in making your elderly loved ones feel truly appreciated at Christmas. With thoughtful touches, inclusive activities, and some extra comfort measures, you’ll be gifting them joy that lasts far longer than the festive season.