Christmas can be magical. But when you’re caring for elderly parents, it can also be complex. From meals and medication to family expectations and emotional wellbeing, there’s a lot to juggle.
At Carents.co.uk, we know how important it is to plan ahead. Not just to reduce stress, but to make space for what really matters: connection, comfort, and a Christmas that everyone can enjoy.
Here are 5 things to get sorted early, so you can have a calmer, kinder Christmas this year.
1. Get the Calendar Set
One of the simplest ways to reduce festive stress is to get clear on dates and plans early.
- Will your parent be spending Christmas with you or staying in their own home?
- Who else is visiting and when?
- Would they prefer a quiet day or to be part of a bigger family gathering?
Make sure your parent is involved in these decisions. It’s easy for plans to be made for them, not with them. A gentle conversation now can help to avoid misunderstandings closer to Christmas. Download your free Calm Christmas Planner here and take the pressure off your memory and onto paper.
💡 Carents Tip: Once plans are agreed, write them up somewhere visible for everyone.
2. Prepare Their Home (or Yours)
If your elderly parent will be staying at yours, make a few tweaks early:
- Check for trip hazards such as loose rugs or cluttered walkways.
- Think comfort. A quiet space they can retreat to, their favourite blanket or chair, and good lighting.
- Create festive cheer without overwhelm. Familiar music (M4d link?), gentle lighting, and decorations they recognise from years past can bring joy and grounding.
If they’re staying in their own home:
- Are they set up for a cosy, content Christmas?
- Will someone be popping in?
- Have they got festive food, treats, and anything meaningful such as cards or church services?
💡 Carents Tip: Don’t forget the little things. A tin of their favourite biscuits, a festive jumper, or writing cards together can make all the difference.
3. Plan Health & Care Essentials
Christmas should still be relaxing, and being across prescriptions, equipment and healthcare plans can help you feel more relaxed in the future.
Get these sorted early:
- Ensure prescriptions are ordered and collected before closures.
- Stock up on extras like hearing aid batteries, continence supplies, or skin creams.
- If your parent has professional carers, check their Christmas rota and any changes to timings.
- Let your parent’s GP know you’re their carer. This allows you to help with appointments, prescriptions, or concerns over the holidays.
💡 Carents Tip: Ask your parent’s pharmacy if delivery is an option. This can be especially useful if you’re juggling multiple responsibilities.
4. Make It Meaningful, Not Just Manageable
It’s easy to get caught up in logistics, but Christmas is about moments, not just meals.
- Keep things low-pressure. You don’t have to do everything. A warm cup of tea and a shared mince pie might be more welcome than a formal dinner.
- Try choosing a few meaningful traditions your parent still enjoys. Watching the King’s Speech, listening to carols, or opening stockings can all be joyful.
Be flexible. Allow time for rest, quiet, and slowing down. Christmas doesn’t need to be noisy to be joyful.
💡 Carents Tip: Prepare some conversation starters or memory prompts. Sharing stories from Christmas past can bring smiles and help connect generations.
5. Stay Connected and Supported
If you won’t be with your parent on Christmas Day:
- Plan a call or video chat at a good time for them.
- Check in with neighbours, carers or local groups who might be visiting.
- Set up a small surprise such as a hamper, handwritten card or a local community lunch.
Also, make sure you feel supported. Caring at Christmas can feel lonely even when you’re surrounded by people. The Carents community is here for you.
💡 Carents Tip: Explore local support like community events, church services, or befriending calls. And visit carents.co.uk to connect with others in similar situations.
Download the Calm Christmas Planner
To make this all easier, we’ve created the Calm Christmas Planner. It’s a free tool to help you prepare with peace of mind.
It includes:
✅ Checklists for meals, meds and visits
✅ Space to plan gifts, activities and rest
✅ A place to write emergency contacts and plans
Download the Calm Christmas Planner here and take the pressure off your memory and onto paper.
