Don’t fall into the loneliness trap this holiday season. Being far away from loved ones can be painful, but there are plenty of ways to stay active and cheerful through the holiday season. 

Video Calls 

Quality face time with loved ones is possible even if you’re celebrating in different places. Stay connected through smartphones, tablets, and computers. Most devices come with built-in video call applications such as FaceTime (Apple devices) and Google Duo (Android devices). For any devices that don’t have a pre-installed app, downloading Skype or Zoom will give you access to video calling technology. Note that Skype and Zoom do require setting up an account with your email address. Additionally, the Facebook Portal and Amazon Echo Show are stand-alone and voice-activated, video-calling devices. 

Taking Trips Outside of the Home

Indoor routines can be comforting. They can also develop into an attractive, but ultimately restricting, pair of golden handcuffs. Explore blue and green spaces (nearby bodies of water and parks), many older adults report feeling refreshed after a short trip through nature. 

Volunteer 

Getting out of the house doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. Volunteering can help capture the holiday spirit, and it’s also a great way to form new friendships with people who care about the same causes. Consider exercising those social skills while helping others.

Join/Start a Club

Similar to volunteering, clubs are a way to become immersed in an activity and surrounded by like-minded people. Exploring new hobbies is a great self-improvement strategy, as is arranging a weekly pot-luck dinner with old friends. 

Exercise and Diet

Staying active and eating healthy are not solely about improving physical health—they have just as many positive effects on emotional well-being. Researchers have found that older adults with health issues are more likely to feel lonely and isolated. A group exercise class (check with a doctor before joining) could be a good way to meet others and keep fit under the supervision of trained professionals. 

Beware of Scammers 

• When making online purchases, always use a credit card instead of a debit card. 

• Only shop with trusted, well-known online retailers.

• Verify a charity’s authenticity before donating.

• Don’t open emails from, or click on hyperlinks that take you to, unfamiliar websites.

• In the case of an alleged family emergency, never wire money without confirming the details with other family members.

Final Thoughts

Healthy living, meeting and befriending like-minded people, and helping those less fortunate are excellent ways to make the holiday season feel special. We at Open Mortgage wish you a wonderful holiday season. If you have any home-financing questions for 2020 and beyond, give us a call or explore our website today.