HOLIDAY LONELINESS SCORE & TIPS FOR STAYING CONNECTED

Written by Sarah Dirks - SVP of Business Development, BHS

When the Season Feels Silent: Combating Holiday Loneliness in Long-Term Care

As the twinkle of the holiday season begins to glow, long-term care communities often come alive with festive décor, familiar songs, and cherished traditions. Yet beneath the sparkle, this time of year can be one of the most emotionally complex periods for residents, families, and care teams alike. The holidays stir powerful memories—family gatherings, traditions, and the comforts of home—that can heighten feelings of loss or separation. Addressing that emotional gap isn’t just compassionate; it’s essential to the overall well-being and satisfaction of residents and their families.

According to research published in the National Library of Medicine, residents who report higher levels of loneliness also experience significantly lower quality of life, reinforcing the need for meaningful social and family connection during the holidays. Nearly 40% of nursing home residents report feelings of loneliness, even in communities with strong service performance and high satisfaction scores.

Why This Matters

Loneliness is more than an emotion—it carries real health risks, including higher rates of depression, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. During the holidays, many residents reflect on lost loved ones, missed traditions, and reduced independence. These emotions can intensify feelings of isolation and contribute to lowered well-being.

Even in high-performing communities where satisfaction scores exceed 70–80%, loneliness can still occur. Strong service alone doesn’t always translate into emotional fulfillment or meaningful human connection—especially during a season rooted in togetherness.

Turning Insight Into Action: How Families and Staff Can Reduce Loneliness

Family connection remains one of the most powerful ways to reduce loneliness. Even brief check-ins—whether in person, by phone, or via video—can make a meaningful difference. For those who can’t visit in person, technology bridges distance with virtual decorating sessions, shared holiday playlists, or recorded greetings.

Care teams play an equally vital role in creating a sense of belonging. Small-group activities such as coffee chats, caroling, craft time, reminiscence groups, or decorating together foster connection and build community. These small acts of presence often create a ripple effect, reminding us that compassion is at the heart of quality care, especially during the holidays.

“From all of us at BHS, may this holiday season remind us that the greatest gift we can offer is our presence—the kindness of showing up, the grace of listening, and the joy of connection.”

Holiday Connection Checklist: Meaningful Ways to Support Residents This Season

• Share familiar traditions

  • Bring photos, holiday cards, ornaments, or items that spark comforting memories.

• Schedule short, frequent check-ins

  • A five-minute call or video chat can reduce loneliness more than infrequent long visits.

• Create moments of presence

  • Sit, listen, reminisce. Genuine presence is one of the most powerful emotional supports we offer.

• Invite residents into the season

  • Ask about their favorite traditions and incorporate them into décor, music, or themed activities.

• Encourage group engagement

  • Coffee chats, caroling, cookie decorating, craft circles, and story times build community and belonging.

• Use technology to bridge distance

  • Virtual decorating sessions, message boards, or shared holiday playlists help include families who can’t visit.

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