Senior facilities see health decline in residents around the holidays

OGDEN, Utah — The holiday season can be tough on residents in nursing homes, assisted living, and care facilities. Healthcare workers notice a marked decline in overall well-being stemming from depression.

Jenny Francis is the Executive Director of Hidden Valley Assisted Living in South Ogden, and she has seen residents start to lose hope this time of year.

“They say, ‘My loved one has passed away, my spouse that I usually celebrate these holidays with.’ So they get really sad and they get depressed and they start saying it’s time to go. I want to be back with my loved one,” said Francis.

As a result, many struggle to eat or get out of bed. Francis said many residents are used to being a big part of the holidays by hosting parties and planning events. Now they might only see their families during one short visit, and sometimes not at all.

“They see the holiday season as a time for their families to get together. They reminisce about the good times that they’ve had with their spouse and their children, but they’re just alone,” said Francis.

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Some are stepping up to help

Local kids and teens are doing their part to try and lift the spirits of lonely residents. A Weber County Elementary School came to Hidden Valley Assisted living to sing carols and brought residents to tears.

“I asked, are those tears of joy, I hope? And they said, yes and also of sadness. It’s just nice to see these kids because I don’t get to see my family very often,” said Francis.

Eagle Mountain teen, Kyson Kunz has done sub-for-Santa at a local care facility for the past three years. He sells homemade fudge to earn the money to buy gifts and delivers them in-person along with family and friends.

“I want to have the people in the elderly home feel loved and important knowing they’re cared for,” said Kunz.

Kyson’s mom is proud of the effort he’s making.

“He just lights up when he’s able to serve them,” said Mary Kunz, Kyson’s mother.

Francis said any efforts to reach out to lonely residents this season are welcome.

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