Navigating the Winter Holiday Season
By Ailene Gerhardt, MA, BCPA, CSA®, Founder, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC & Navigating Solo Network
Host, The Navigating Solo™ Podcast
The winter holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness—or so it can seem on the surface. For many, it can also bring moments of loneliness or reflection, especially if navigating this time of year on one’s own. Add in the challenges of winter—shorter days, colder weather, and difficult travel conditions—and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
While family-focused articles abound, the unique needs of solo agers—those navigating life without reliable support —deserve thoughtful attention.
As a solo aging advocate, educator, and board-certified patient advocate, I deeply consider how isolation, loneliness, and environmental challenges can impact overall health and well-being. This article offers practical, creative, and empowering approaches to help solo agers embrace the holiday and winter season while nurturing their physical and emotional health.
Plan Ahead: Intentionality for a Meaningful Holiday Season and Winter
Planning ahead is one of the best ways for solo agers to live a dynamic, fulfilling life. By intentionally thinking about how you spend your time and with whom, you can avoid feeling adrift during the holidays and manage the unique challenges winter brings.
Prepare for Winter Weather: Stock up on essentials like groceries, medications, and household supplies in case icy conditions make getting out difficult. If shoveling snow or clearing ice is a concern, consider hiring a local service or asking a neighbor for help.
Create a Schedule: Structure your day to include activities that bring you joy and purpose. Incorporate indoor and outdoor plans, like a favorite TV show or a brisk afternoon walk, depending on the weather.
Emergency Kit: Prepare a small winter emergency kit for your car or home, including flashlights, blankets, and warm clothing, in case of power outages or unexpected situations.
Harness the Power of Technology
Technology offers solo agers the ability to stay connected and engaged, even when winter conditions make in-person gatherings more difficult.
Virtual Activities: Join virtual interest groups, attend online events, or host a virtual game night with friends. Platforms like GetSetUp or Senior Planet offer courses and social gatherings tailored to older adults.
Check-In Groups: Form a "check-in buddy" system with friends or neighbors. A quick daily text or call can ensure everyone stays safe during winter storms or icy conditions.
Digital Winter Escapes: Use technology to explore virtual tours of museums, national parks, or other experiences. It’s a great way to combat cabin fever and engage your curiosity.
Adapt to Shorter Days and Colder Weather
The shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures of winter can impact both your mood and physical activity.
Maximize Daylight: Try to spend time outside during midday, when sunlight is brightest. Even 15 minutes of fresh air can improve your mood and provide a boost of Vitamin D.
Brighten Your Space: Use warm lighting, candles, or light therapy lamps to create a cozy and uplifting atmosphere at home.
Stay Warm: Layer clothing, use heated blankets, and ensure your home is well-insulated to maintain comfort and reduce heating costs.
Move Indoors: If outdoor walks become unsafe due to ice or snow, consider walking in indoor malls or community centers where it’s safer and warmer.
Connect with Others In Person: Building Holiday and Winter Connections
While winter conditions can make travel more challenging, in-person interactions are still vital for connection and well-being.
Community Programming: Look for winter-friendly indoor activities at local libraries, senior centers, or community centers, and faith communities, such as crafting, book clubs, or movie screenings.
Transportation Solutions: If driving in icy conditions is a concern, explore public transit options, rideshare apps, or community volunteer driver programs.
Small Moments of Connection: Make a point to greet neighbors, wave to a passerby, or chat with someone at the grocery store. These small exchanges can brighten your day and theirs.
Decorate Your Space: Creating Joy at Home
Surrounding yourself with beauty and holiday cheer can boost your mood and make your home a haven during the darker winter months.
Seasonal Touches: Incorporate seasonal decor, like snowflake lights or winter wreaths, to make your space feel festive even after the holidays.
Cozy Corners: Create a comfortable nook with blankets, a favorite chair, and warm drinks where you can read, reflect, or simply relax.
Prioritize Self-Care: Nurturing Your Well-Being
Self-care is essential during the holidays and throughout winter, when colder weather can take a toll on physical and emotional health.
Stay Active Indoors: Try chair yoga, stretching routines, or online fitness classes designed for older adults to stay physically active when it’s too cold to go outside.
Pamper Yourself: Treat yourself to activities that feel restorative, whether it’s soaking in a warm bath, enjoying a cup of tea, or wearing cozy slippers.
Focus on Nutrition: Winter comfort foods are wonderful, but aim to include nourishing meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to keep your energy up.
Get Outdoors: Nature as a Healing Balm (Even in Winter!)
Despite the cold, spending time outdoors can provide immense benefits to your health and well-being.
Bundle Up: Invest in warm, waterproof clothing so you can comfortably enjoy winter walks or other outdoor activities.
Safe Paths: Stick to well-maintained trails or paths free of ice. Some communities provide free or low-cost snow-clearing services for seniors.
Winter Wonders: Appreciate the unique beauty of winter—glistening snow, frosty branches, or the crisp morning air. These small moments of wonder can uplift your spirit.
Cultivate Gratitude: A Key to Emotional Resilience
Gratitude remains a powerful tool for boosting happiness and resilience, especially in the darker months.
Gratitude Walks: If the weather permits, take short walks where you reflect on things you’re grateful for.
Daily Gratitude Practice: Write down three things each day that bring you joy—whether it’s a warm cup of coffee, a kind word, or a favorite memory.
Share Your Gratitude: Let others know you appreciate them through calls, cards, or emails. Spreading positivity often brings it back to you.
Volunteer: A Gift to Yourself and Others
Giving back during winter can help you feel connected and purposeful.
Help Neighbors: Offer to assist with small tasks like shoveling snow or picking up groceries for someone nearby.
Community Involvement: Volunteer at local food banks, animal shelters, or warming centers to make a difference in your community.
Solo Ager Connections: Join communities like those offered the Navigating Solo Network, where you can connect with others and participate in collaborative service projects.
Final Thoughts: Empowerment Through Choice
As solo agers, navigating the holiday and winter seasons alone doesn’t mean navigating them without joy, purpose, or connection. By planning ahead, embracing creativity, and finding ways to connect despite the season’s challenges, you can transform this time into an opportunity for renewal, growth, and even celebration.
Remember, the holidays and winter are what you make of them—so take charge, prioritize your well-being, and seek out meaningful ways to find warmth and light in the season.