Get Ready... Get Set... Holiday Decorating Tips for Golden Adults

The holiday season brings warmth, nostalgia, and a chance to make your home feel festive. But for older adults, decorating doesn’t have to mean climbing ladders, untangling lights, or risking a pulled muscle. With a few thoughtful choices, you can create a joyful atmosphere that’s safe, simple, and full of heart.

Keeping it simple can be stunning. You don’t need to transform your home into a winter wonderland to feel the holiday spirit. A few well-placed decorations can go a long way.  Focus on key areas like your front door, mantel, or dining table and decorate them with heart.  One or two focal points can be all you need.

Use pre-lit decorations whenever possible.  Skip the hassle of detangling and stringing lights by opting for pre-lit garlands, tabletop decorations and holiday trees. And be sure to put your lights on a timer or remote-controlled outlet so your lights come on when you want and turn off without worry or fuss.  You can also ease decorating challenges by sticking to a color theme or a cohesive palette like gold and white or red and green to instantly elevate your space with minimal effort.  And use easy to place items like holiday pillows, festive blankets and even holiday candy that pack a punch of color and style.

Avoid the ladder by decorating at eye level inside and out.  Falls are one of the most common holiday hazards, especially when climbing to hang lights or ornaments. Use removable hooks and clear door hangers to hang wreaths on windows and doors. And decorate from the ground up by placing festive figurines, lanterns, or poinsettias on tables, shelves, or the floor.

Choose safe, low-maintenance decor like battery-operated candles to get the cozy glow without the fire risk.  Choose weighted decorations that are sturdy and stable to help prevent tipping. Avoid extension cords across walkways and secure cords along walls with channel hooks. Once your home is decked out, make sure it’s still easy to move about.  Avoid cluttering walkways with gifts or decorations, secure rugs with non-slip pads and ensure good lighting in hallways and staircases.

Remember to ask for help when you need it.  Decorating can be a wonderful way to connect with family and friends. Invite loved ones over for a decorating day and make it a tradition. If you can, for bigger jobs, hire a local handyman or service for tasks like hanging outdoor lights or lifting and placing heavy items.

To connect with memories and stories of the past, decorate with intention.  One of the most heartwarming ways to decorate is by choosing a few items that carry special meaning.  Display heirloom ornaments that remind you of loved ones or past holidays. Frame old holiday photos or cards and place them on your mantel or side table. And don't forget to tell the stories behind each piece to visiting family and friends.  It’s a beautiful way to pass on traditions and spark conversation. These meaningful touches not only make your space feel festive, they also fill it with love and nostalgia.

Make new decorations together this year.  Crafting with friends or grandkids is a wonderful way to bond, share laughs, and create lasting memories.  Hosting a craft afternoon to make simple projects like decorating pinecones, making paper snowflakes, or assembling mini wreaths can be fun and easy. Get the grandkids involved by letting them help with painting ornaments, stringing popcorn garlands, or designing handmade cards. Consider using preassembled kits or online tutorials for inspiration. And don't forget to display your creations proudly.  They’ll add a personal touch to your home and remind you of the joy behind each one.

The holidays should be about joy, not stress. A few thoughtful touches, especially those that carry meaning, can create a warm, festive atmosphere without the aches and pains. So sip some cocoa, turn on your favorite holiday music and enjoy the season in comfort and style... BFore Aging in Place.