Keeping a Christmas routine over the festive period can be tricky. There are often social events that involve going out, as well as eating and drinking more than usual. While making plans over Christmas can be stressful if you have mobility issues, try to remember it should be enjoyable. There are little things you can do to help make the lifestyle change easier. Here, our team discuss 10 ways to make sure your Christmas routine works for you…
Keep your diet consistent
It can be easy to eat rich, high fat and high sugar foods over Christmas. While the occasional treat is no problem, to avoid weight gain, bloating or discomfort try to keep a balance. For example, if you usually eat fruit at breakfast time, try to keep this up as much as you can. If you struggle to remember what you’ve eaten, writing it down can help. Keeping a Christmas food routine can help you feel less bloated and more energetic.
Don’t be afraid to say ‘no’
Many of us see an increase in invites to drinks, lunches and celebrations at Christmas. While these can be great fun, don’t overdo it. If you find your invites are starting to cause you more stress than excitement, don’t be afraid to say no. If you find this uncomfortable, politely suggest a date in the New Year instead.
Make travel plans early
If you know you’ll be travelling to visit relatives as part of a Christmas routine, make your travel plans early. If you have mobility issues, take a look at public transport websites in advance to plan your route. Try to travel outside of peak hours – this should mean that public transport should be less busy. This can help to reduce stress. It’s worth setting aside money for taxis or an emergency contact should you have a longer distance to travel.
Set a budget
It can be easy to feel pressured in to spending beyond your means at Christmas. Set a budget and be sure to stick to it. If you find you cannot afford to get presents for everyone on your list, why not suggest you spend some time together instead? Don’t forget, if you have time, a homemade gift such as a Christmas cake or craft item can be a good alternative.
De-clutter your home
If you are decorating your home for Christmas, be sure to de-clutter. Avoid putting decorations in places that may cause you to trip. If you occasionally fall in your home, you may want to consider lifeline – a 24 hour, 365 day service that can help in the event of an emergency.
Avoiding loneliness
Keeping a Christmas routine is much easier if you still undertake your usual activities. This is important if you have limited contact with people and sometimes meet friends or attend a group to combat loneliness. If you find your usual group is not running over Christmas, why not attend a local Christmas light celebration or volunteer? Many local charities run Christmas events for the homeless over the festive period.
Christmas routine exercise
It’s a well-known fact that many of us forgo our usual exercise routines over the festive period. Keeping a Christmas routine should include gentle exercise. While you may not be able to do your usual exercise routine, if you are staying with relatives venturing out to the garden or walking a pet can help.
Know your limits
If you’re not a big drinker, knowing your limits over the festive period is advisable. If you do decide to indulge in a drink or two, be sure to intersperse drinking alcohol with water, and keep stronger drinks to mealtimes.
Get medication and non-perishable food
If you have a repeat prescription you need, be sure to get hold of it early. Many doctors’ surgeries close over the festive period, so it’s important to check their opening hours. The same goes for food – many shops become busy before Christmas, especially at weekends. While you may not be able to store some items for a long time, think about freezer and cupboard staples. Picking them up early can save stress further down the line.
Have a good night time routine
One thing the festive period can wreak havoc with is your night time routine. While you may find yourself having later nights, consider how you can still get a restful sleep. Whether you take naps during the day or do things to get a better quality of sleep, be sure to make sure you don’t tire yourself out.
To find out more about how telecare can help you over the festive period please contact us or call 0300 333 6511.