Imagine outliving your friends, your spouse and many of your family members. We think about seniors being alone or feeling lonely during the holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas. But often Valentine’s Day can be a bittersweet time, too. We all remember the fun of cards when we were in elementary school. Even as a little girl my father gave us Valentine’s Day cards. He kept that up until he passed away at 89. I loved getting them and miss him even more on Valentine’s Day.
Think what it must be like not to get a card from anyone after a lifetime starting in elementary school having the fun of opening cards and hearing folks liked you and often loved you. You’d get a kick out of seeing the walkers at the McLean Health Center all decorated with cards folks receive. They love sharing them with others. One famous lady gets many with cats as everyone knows she loves cats.
But what about the person who doesn’t’ get a single card? Think of an elder you know from church who may be home alone. Think of elders who used to be in your community organizations and no longer attend meetings. Send them a card.
Are you a teacher? Have your class make cards and bring them to a nursing home or the senior center. The staff will share them with seniors.
The very best idea is to visit an elder in their home or in an assisted living center or nursing home. Spending time is the best gift of all and even better than a card. Of course, you can bring a card, too.
As they say, “share the love” everyday but this day is special in our memories even if it has been made commercial. Keep making new memories for our seniors with just a little effort.
