As millions of diyas flicker to life this Diwali, casting shadows across Indian homes, a different kind of darkness lurks behind festive facades – the silent struggle of our elderly with mental health. While the festival of lights promises joy and celebration, for many seniors, it amplifies feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. The pressure to participate in celebrations, coupled with physical limitations and sometimes cognitive decline, can transform what should be a season of joy into a period of emotional turbulence.
Yet, within this challenge lies an unprecedented opportunity. The very traditions that can feel overwhelming also hold the key to unlocking better mental health for our elderly population.Neha Sinha, Dementia Specialist and Co-Founder & CEO of Epoch Elder Care, powerfully articulates this paradox.
"Festivals have always played an important part in our lives, bringing us joy, closeness, affection, and togetherness. For the elderly, especially those living with conditions such as dementia, Parkinson's, or Alzheimer's, such festivities attain greater significance as they form a critical link to their memories, rekindling emotions and reviving the sense of enjoyment in the past."
Festival Activities to Help Seniors Stay Happy
Here are five creative activities that can help seniors feel happy and connected during Diwali, inspired by expert advice.
Reviving Festive Memories
Engage elderly family members in preparing traditional Diwali sweets and snacks. This activity not only stimulates memories but also provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Creating family recipes together can spark conversations about cherished memories and strengthen intergenerational bonds.
Creating a Sense of Community
Involve seniors in rangoli making, diya painting, and home decoration. These activities improve fine motor skills while creating opportunities for creative expression and social interaction.
Dress-Up and Cultural Connection
Help elderly family members select and wear traditional attire. As Sinha notes, "Whether it's recreating the favourite kurtas from a grandfather's youth and twinning with him, or spending time making rangoli with loved ones, these shared moments make elders feel engaged, energised, and emotionally supported."
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Social Engagement with Hearing Support
As Vineet Narang, Founder & Managing Director of HearClear India, points out, “Hearing loss becomes a common problem with ageing, discouraging them from celebrating festivals wholeheartedly.” It’s crucial to address any hearing challenges seniors may face.
Ensuring they have access to hearing aids or treatment can promote active participation in gatherings. When seniors can hear and engage fully, their mental wellness improves, allowing them to connect with loved ones during the festivities.
Memory-Making Through Photography
Create a dedicated photo session with elderly family members, capturing them in their festive best. These photographs can serve as precious memories and boost their sense of being valued and included.
Sinha emphasises the therapeutic value of nostalgia, "Nostalgia is far more than simply sentimental reminiscence; it is a resource for emotional and physiological health. It allows one to feel safe and protected, thus lessening stress and contributing to the comfort of a person."
For families with elderly members who have hearing challenges, Narang suggests practical solutions: "Understanding the problem, seeking integrated hearing care solutions can significantly help them cope with their hearing disability and lead a quality life... modern-day hearing aids, which are sleek and user-friendly devices that deliver natural sound for the utmost comfort of the user, enabling them to hear normally and stay connected with loved ones."
This Diwali, while we light diyas and share sweets, let's remember that the true spirit of the festival lies in illuminating the lives of our elderly family members. Through thoughtful inclusion and understanding of their needs, we can make this festival a truly meaningful celebration for all generations.
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