Christmas morning has arrived. In the chaos of wrapping paper flying everywhere, children's screams of delight echo throughout the living room. At the same time, exhausted parents clutch their cups of coffee trying to wake up enough to enjoy the moment.
Now in their 70s, Town Square NW clients Margaret and Mindy recall memories like this of their childhood as they sit in the park of the midcentury-themed adult daycare facility, where they come to help stave off the inevitable worsening of Alzheimer's disease.
Even when money was tight, their parents miraculously made Christmas magical. Happiness is etched into their delicate, wisdom-lined faces as they fade in and out of those memories.
While both women will have loved ones around them during the holiday season, many older adults don't. The number of adults over 65 has increased in the U.S. by 1,000 percent in the last century, according to census data. Central Texas is the second fastest-growing area for people older than 65 in the U.S. and the fastest-growing region for people ages 50 to 64, according to population statistics.
Epidemic of loneliness
Loneliness and isolation have devastating effects on older adults’ mental and physical health, according to a 2023 Office of the Surgeon General news release. Some physical manifestations include an almost 29 percent increased risk of heart disease, a 32 percent increased risk of stroke, and a 50 percent increase in developing dementia in older adults, the release said.
"The majority of our clients are in some stage of dementia,” said Elisa Reodica, co-owner and center director of Town Square NW. “Allowing them to age with dignity while still being able to socialize is critical to their health. Giving them a chance to gather during the holidays allows them not to feel so alone during the season.”
Austinites meeting a need
Bonnie How, program director of the Information & Resources Center at the nonprofit organization AGE of Central Texas, shared a story about a client who lives in assisted living housing and loves a good conversation over coffee.
Last Christmas, How invited her to the Armadillo Christmas Craft Fair. For two hours, they strolled through the Long Center, perusing the handmade quilts, ceramics and artwork. Afterward, they treated themselves to Starbucks peppermint mocha lattes.
"It's the simple things," How said. "Dropping a note with your contact information into your elderly neighbor's mailbox, letting them know you're there to help if they need anything. Or even better, leaving a small gift basket of treats or lotions. Little things like this go a long way and help our senior community not to feel so alone."
How to get involved
Residents who want to give back this holiday season can contribute their talents or provide companionship at either of these facilities, assisted living homes, churches and other organizations, Reodica said.
Right in your neighborhood, you can offer to spend quality time, help set up decorations and lights, or share a meal with an older neighbor.
“It’s nice to know that people are still kind,” Margaret said.
By offering your time and kindness, you can brighten an often-overlooked community’s holiday season and help create new cherished memories.
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"By offering your time and kindness, you can brighten an often-overlooked community’s holiday season and help create new cherished memories."
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“Allowing them to age with dignity while still being able to socialize is critical to their health. Giving them a chance to gather during the holidays allows them not to feel so alone during the season.”