Supporting dignity, connection and wellbeing through person-centred care

The holiday season can be a time of joy, reflection and connection. For many older Australians and people living with disability, however, it can also bring feelings of loneliness, grief, financial stress or social exclusion.

How families, carers and community organisations respond during this period matters deeply. Intentional, respectful communication and culturally competent support can transform the holiday experience from isolating to inclusive.

At CCCare, we believe that person-centred care in Australia means ensuring every individual feels valued, heard and respected — especially during significant cultural and seasonal moments.

Why the Holiday Season Can Be Complex for Seniors

Research from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that social isolation and loneliness are linked to poorer mental and physical health outcomes in older adults. Holiday periods may intensify these feelings due to:

• Bereavement or family distance
• Reduced mobility
• Financial constraints
• Cultural displacement
• Health challenges

For culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) seniors, holidays may also carry layered meaning — either deeply comforting or emotionally challenging.

Under the Aged Care Quality Standards (Standard 1: Consumer Dignity and Choice), providers must recognise identity, culture and diversity. This obligation does not pause during holiday periods.

Why Language Matters During the Holidays

Communication in elderly care becomes particularly important during emotionally sensitive times.

Research published in BMC Geriatrics demonstrates that person-centred communication improves wellbeing and engagement in care decisions (Park et al., 2018). Ageism research by Levy (2009) shows that subtle language cues can influence older adults’ self-perception and health outcomes.

Small shifts in language can create meaningful change.

Instead of:

“You must be lonely this time of year.”

Consider:

“How are you feeling about the holidays this year?”

This invites autonomy rather than assumption.

Instead of:

“Let’s keep it simple this year.”

Consider:

“What traditions are most important to you?”

This respects identity and cultural expression.

Practical Ways to Support Seniors During the Holidays

1. Ask About Meaning and Preferences

Not everyone celebrates the same holidays. Use open, inclusive questions:

• “Is there anything special you’d like to do this season?”
• “Are there traditions we can support?”

2. Support Cultural Expression

Australia’s diversity means holidays vary across communities. Respecting cultural traditions aligns with the Aged Care Diversity Framework and strengthens belonging.

3. Encourage Social Connection

Facilitate:

• Community events
• Intergenerational visits
• Video calls for remote families
• Faith-based or cultural gatherings

Connection supports mental wellbeing and reduces isolation.

4. Maintain Routine and Autonomy

Changes in routine can create anxiety. Where possible:

• Preserve familiar schedules
• Offer choice in activities
• Respect personal boundaries

Autonomy reinforces dignity.

5. Be Mindful of Financial Sensitivity

Holidays can create financial pressure. Avoid assumptions about gift-giving or participation costs. Clear, respectful communication reduces embarrassment or stress.

Risks of Poor Communication During the Holidays

When language is dismissive, rushed or assumptive:

• Seniors may withdraw emotionally
• Cultural identity may feel overlooked
• Trust in carers may decline
• Complaints or dissatisfaction may increase

Under both the Aged Care Quality Standards and NDIS Practice Standards, dignity, respect and informed choice remain mandatory — including during seasonal programming.

Organisational Implications for Care Providers

For non-profit community organisations like CCCare, the holiday season presents an opportunity to demonstrate leadership in person-centred care.

Best practice includes:

• Staff and volunteer training in respectful language
• Cultural competency education
• Inclusive event planning
• Clear communication of participation options
• Sensitivity to grief and loss

Embedding these principles strengthens community trust and service quality.

Supporting Family Carers and Volunteers

Families and volunteers play a crucial role in seasonal wellbeing.

Encourage carers to:

• Listen without judgement
• Validate emotions
• Avoid infantilising language
• Offer support rather than impose plans
• Respect energy levels and health limitations

Person-centred communication strengthens relationships across generations.

A Community Approach to Seasonal Wellbeing

Holidays are not just about celebration — they are about belonging.

By prioritising respectful language in aged care and communication in elderly care settings, communities can:

• Reduce isolation
• Reinforce identity
• Promote dignity in care services
• Strengthen intergenerational bonds

Care should adapt to the individual — not the season to the system.

CCCare’s Commitment

As a non-profit community organisation and service provider, CCCare is committed to:

• Delivering culturally responsive support
• Promoting inclusive seasonal engagement
• Upholding dignity and choice
• Aligning with Australian care standards
• Strengthening community connection

Our guiding principle remains:

Culturally Competent Care for Every Community.

Because when language reflects respect, every season can feel inclusive.

Call to Action

If you are:

• A family member supporting an older loved one
• A community worker planning seasonal programs
• A volunteer seeking meaningful involvement
• A senior looking to stay connected

Contact CCCare to learn about:

• Community holiday events
• Social connection programs
• Home care services
• Cultural engagement initiatives

Together, we can make the holiday season a time of dignity, inclusion and connection.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

How can seniors avoid loneliness during the holidays?

Staying socially connected through community events, family visits, cultural gatherings and virtual communication can reduce isolation and support emotional wellbeing.

Why is respectful language important in aged care during holidays?

Respectful language reinforces dignity, supports autonomy and ensures cultural identity is recognised, especially during emotionally significant periods.

How can carers support older Australians during seasonal celebrations?

Carers can ask open questions, respect traditions, maintain routines, avoid assumptions and support informed choice to strengthen person-centred care.

What standards guide dignity in care services in Australia?

The Aged Care Quality Standards and NDIS Practice Standards require providers to uphold dignity, respect identity and support informed decision-making.