Dear Donna:
My dad came to stay with my husband and our family this spring. He had been living alone since my mom passed away two years ago. We felt like he was spending too much time alone and not socializing much. It was negatively impacting his mental and physical well-being.
Mom and Dad used to host Christmas every year. My brother and his family would fly in for a few days and stay with my parents. Since we sold the house before moving Dad in with us, however, this year will be different. My brother has decided they won’t be coming for a visit until after the new year.
I’m hoping to find ways for my dad and my brother’s children to visit virtually throughout the holiday season. Like my kids, they are teenagers. So, I’m finding it difficult to come up with good ideas. Do you have any suggestions?
Sincerely,
Caitlyn in Traverse City, MI
Dear Caitlyn:
What a good observation on the part of you and your husband. Loneliness and isolation among older adults are linked to a variety of health issues ranging from depression to diabetes. It is very thoughtful to move your dad in with you, even temporarily.
The holiday season is a time for family, love, and connection. When distance or circumstances prevent grandparents and teenagers from gathering in person, technology offers creative ways to stay close and make meaningful memories together. Here are some fun and heartwarming ways to bridge the generational gap virtually this Christmas.
Pick a classic Christmas movie, such as Home Alone, Elf, or The Santa Clause, and watch it together using a platform like Teleparty or Zoom. Don’t forget to encourage movie snacks for all parties involved!
Food brings people together, even over video chat. Grandparents can walk teens through a cherished family recipe while cooking “together” on a Zoom call. This shared experience not only teaches cooking skills, but also keeps family traditions alive.
Games like Scrabble GO, Words with Friends, or online card games can be another fun way to connect. For something more personal, try trivia games based on family history. Have the teens prepare questions about the family tree, and grandparents can share stories sparked by the answers.
Use platforms like Canva or Google Slides to create a shared digital scrapbook. Grandparents can upload old Christmas photos, and teens can add modern touches, captions, or music. It’s a collaborative way to share memories and learn about each other’s experiences.
Nothing says holiday spirit like singing together. Host a virtual karaoke or caroling session. Teens can create a playlist, and everyone can join in from their living rooms. Don’t forget to video record it so you can have it for many years to come.
Connecting across generations doesn’t require being in the same room—it just takes intention, creativity, and a little digital magic. This Christmas, let the spirit of togetherness shine, no matter the distance.
Kind regards,
Donna
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