The holidays are a time for joy, togetherness, and reflection, but the season’s fast pace can sometimes feel overwhelming—especially as we grow older. To help you navigate this busy season with grace and ease, we’ve turned to Kelly Rogers, Certified Gerontologist and Head of Aging in Place Partnerships here at Longbridge Financial.
Kelly brings nearly 30 years of experience working with seniors and their families. As the co-founder of Respect Your Elders and the Adopt an Elder Foundation, she’s dedicated her life to advocating for seniors and helping them overcome life’s challenges. We sat down with Kelly to get her insights on how to slow down, focus on what matters most, and truly savor the season.
- Set a Comfortable Pace
The holidays often come with long to-do lists and high expectations, but it’s important to honor your energy levels. Slow down and focus on what truly matters. Instead of trying to do it all, choose one or two meaningful traditions or events to prioritize. For example, if decorating the house brings you joy, take your time and enjoy the process. If attending multiple gatherings feels overwhelming, consider attending just one or hosting a cozy get-together at home. Remember, the goal is to feel connected and fulfilled, not stretched too thin.
- Revisit Nostalgia
Nostalgia can be a powerful source of comfort and joy. This holiday season, revisit traditions or memories that hold a special place in your heart. Dust off an old family recipe and bake it with loved ones, watch classic holiday movies you enjoyed as a child, or listen to music that evokes fond memories. You can also share stories or photo albums with family members, bringing generations together to celebrate shared history. These familiar rituals can ground you in the present while honoring the past.
- Simplify Gatherings
Big, bustling holiday events can sometimes feel overwhelming. Instead, opt for smaller, more intimate gatherings with close friends or family. Create a calm and welcoming environment by dimming the lights, playing soft music, and setting a simple yet elegant table. Schedule these gatherings during the time of day when you feel most energetic—whether that’s a midday lunch or an early evening dinner. Keep the menu simple, or consider a potluck to share the workload. A relaxed atmosphere allows for meaningful connections without unnecessary stress.
- Make it Meaningful
The holidays don’t have to be about doing more; they can be about doing things that matter most to you. Engage in activities that are not only enjoyable but also meaningful. Handwrite cards with heartfelt messages to loved ones, decorate ornaments that reflect your family’s unique story, or bake cookies together while sharing memories. These activities create opportunities for connection and allow you to focus on the joy of the moment rather than striving for perfection.
- Embrace New Traditions
Life changes, and it’s natural for traditions to evolve. If certain customs no longer feel feasible or meaningful, explore new ways to celebrate. For instance, instead of a large family dinner, you might opt for a casual holiday brunch. Or, if traveling to see family feels daunting, try connecting virtually with a holiday video call. Incorporating new traditions like an evening drive to see holiday lights or a holiday puzzle night can bring fresh joy while respecting your current lifestyle and needs.
- Prioritize Self-Care
The holidays are a time for giving, but don’t forget to give yourself the gift of self-care. Allow yourself to rest when needed, delegate tasks to others, and let go of the pressure to make everything perfect. And if the season starts to feel overwhelming, remind yourself that it’s okay to say no to certain obligations. By caring for yourself, you’ll be better able to enjoy the season and create cherished memories with those you love.
Slowing down doesn’t mean the holidays have to be dull—in fact, it opens the door to truly savoring the magic of the season. By choosing activities that spark joy and foster connection, you can create memorable moments without the hustle and bustle. Whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a simple outing to enjoy holiday sights and sounds, there are countless ways to celebrate at a pace that feels just right. Here are a few ideas to inspire your festivities:
- Create a simple (yet festive!) centerpiece
- Take a stroll (or drive) to admire holiday lights
- Listen to classic holiday music or sing carols
- Watch a favorite seasonal movie
- Try a holiday-themed puzzle or crossword
From hosting loved ones to finding the perfect gifts, the holidays are a time to make life jolly and bright—but they can also be an expensive season. That’s where a reverse mortgage can help. By tapping into the equity in your home, you can access the funds you need to make your holiday season magical—without adding financial stress.
Ready to enjoy peace of mind this holiday season and beyond? See why over 1.3 million Americans have already made a reverse mortgage part of their retirement plan.1 Contact the Longbridge team today to learn more.
