With the holiday season upon us, it’s an excellent time to take note of the blessings that surround us.

And undoubtedly, one of the most important blessings we should be mindful of is our health – mental and physical.

Too many times, we only learn of the failing health of a family member after a catastrophic event such as a fall. And it’s important to keep in mind that for a senior, a fall isn’t as simple as “pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and start all over again.”

The recovery process for an aging person is far more arduous, as diminished muscle tone that is natural with aging combines with bones that become increasingly brittle as time passes.

In addition to a daily low-impact exercise program, Somerset Court offers a weekly tai chi session for its residents, taught by Ron Loctao.

According to WebMD.com, Tai chi is a centuries-old Chinese tradition that involves a graceful series of movements. People performing tai chi flow between different postures in a slow and focused manner, keeping their body in constant motion and frequently challenging their balance.

A modified senior-centered tai chi program reduced falls nearly a third better in a head-to-head comparison with an exercise regimen that combined aerobics, strength training and balance drills, WebMD reported.

From the emotional health standpoint, keep in mind that if your senior loved one lives alone, holiday visits are very enjoyable and exciting to them. They might seem very energetic and upbeat for the sheer reason that they have been looking forward to “having company.” Everything could have been meticulously cleaned and their wardrobe and personal hygiene could be as if they don’t have a care in the world.

The everyday reality, however, could be that your senior loved one feels isolated and lonely. One of the most advantageous factors of living in a senior community such as Somerset Court is fellowship. Also, a variety of activities, especially those geared around celebrating the holidays, helps to keep seniors upbeat, positive and mentally active.

Ara Bruce, Somerset Court’s activity director, keeps the schedule filled with entertainment and events such as the Children’s Christmas Party, daily Christmas movies and songs and carolers from local schools.

“I look forward to seeing the smiles on (the residents’) faces when the people come in,” said Bruce, who has also been known to perform a set of Christmas favorites for not only Somerset Court residents, but residents of other facilities as well.