“Winter is the time for comfort, good food and warmth, and the touch of a friendly hand; it is the time for home,” British poet Edith Sitwell believed. Special holiday moments are even more magical when they are shared. Social engagement is crucial for seniors, especially during this time of year; engaging in activities and events makes them feel attached to their community. Psychologists think commemorating these traditions can be a form of self-care in treating our mental, emotional, and physical health. Seasons Retirement Communities recognizes that its caring and dedicated team members make a difference through meaningful connections and creating ‘wow moments’ that matter daily. Celebrating the splendour of the holiday season enables its residents to connect to happy experiences from their past, creating a sense of belonging while building relationships.
Here are some mood-boosting ways in which some Seasons homes share connective moments throughout the holidays:
Seasons Amherstburg decorates outside the main entrance and displays a Christmas tree on every floor of the home and in the common areas, where residents and their families enjoy time together. They host ‘Festive Fridays’ for team members to wear holiday-themed colours, clothing, and hats; there is also an ‘Ugly Sweater’ contest for residents and staff to participate in. The home highlights specialty baking featuring residents’ treasured family recipes, and talented resident Wayne plays the piano during festive sing-a-longs. Many vendor sales take place, allowing everyone at the home to prepare for gift-giving. A resident Christmas party is held in the home’s dining room with a specialty-curated meal and a guest appearance by a magical visitor from the North Pole, Santa Claus (adoringly played by Fun Manager Jenn’s Father)! Finally, Seasons Amherstburg conducts a fundraiser with raffle baskets every year, with all proceeds collected donated to a community organization. This year, it is Lola’s Pajama Fairy Project. In the past, they have purchased gifts for a sponsored family, and their Seniorosity Squad and staff have helped wrap all the presents.
Seasons Clarington denotes a special day for decorating and ensures everyone is involved, celebrating with seasonal cocktails and specialty treats. The home traditionally holds ‘Festive Fridays’ too, featuring a different theme every week, such as Antler Day, Christmas Sweater Day, Elf Day, Red & Green, and Silver & Gold, for all residents and team members. Seasonal goodies are available in their bistro area to accompany this merriment. A gingerbread house-building contest sees Service Team Leaders gathering a team of residents to compete! Santa Claus also stops at Seasons Clarington each year, and all residents and team members are invited to bring their little ones in to marvel at his magic. Lastly, team members get extra cozy on Boxing Day, sporting comfy pyjamas.
Seasons Milton worked diligently to create their own Winter Wonderland, complete with four trees and lots of laughter. They’ll showcase their festive spirit when team members celebrate Green Shirt Day, Plaid Shirt Day, Red Shirt Day, and Ugly Sweater Day. Residents and staff will also participate in a friendly competition testing their Christmas-themed trivia knowledge. The Milton Girls Choir delighted the home with a performance. The Milton Christmas Carolers will be dropping by, as well as The Milton Trio, who will perform Christmas orchestral music. Seasons Milton’s very own Glee Club will also put on a special performance for their fellow residents. Fun Manager Jennifer connected with several residents before making the home’s December activities calendar so she could understand what they would most enjoy and where to sprinkle in some surprises, too! Many talked about the impact of their childhood memories and the importance of the traditions they started with their own families. Some things planned are an Apple Strudel Social (freshly baked in the home’s community kitchen); Flavoured-Coffee, Eggnog, and Hot Chocolate Socials; Gingerbread House Decorating; baking featuring the home’s favourite Christmas cookie recipes in celebration of National Cookie Day (on December 4th); a Christmas crafts workshop, including glass ornaments; and finally, Christmas Movie Marathons every day, during December.
Seasons Royal Oak Village starts the holiday season by erecting its 35-foot-tall Christmas tree in its front lobby! Residents watch in awe as the process takes about 6 hours to complete. The home also decorates all common areas with holiday décor. They are another home celebrating ‘Festive Fridays,’ where residents and team members dress in their seasonal best. There is even a ‘Christmas Sweater Day,’ where prizes are awarded to the best. Residents enjoy many singing groups and choirs that come to perform throughout the month. One piano class has played their Christmas Pageant at Seasons ROV for eight years! Young people performing are between 5 and 16 years old and play holiday songs on the home’s grand piano; their parents are invited and enjoy with everyone at the Holiday Punch Social afterward. Of course, Santa Claus and his elves make a special appearance, too, bringing smiles and joy to all. Team members are treated to their traditional holiday party with a full catered luncheon and gift-giving. Over the years, Seasons ROV has also taken part in a local toy drive, where all items are donated and distributed to children in the hospital over the holidays.
If you know someone you think would be an excellent fit for Seasons and is looking to make a difference in the lives of others, you can encourage them to apply today by visiting our website and viewing all available job positions. Seasons believes that genuinely connecting with and caring about their residents can positively change their lives. Simply put, it feels great to make an impact in the life of a senior.