The holiday season often brings cheer and merriment to most, but for those with disabilities, it can bring a lot of undue stress. The thought of not being able to do everything once able to be done can cause anxiety and unhappiness for many people. Jake Erickson, the director of the Aging & Disability Resource Center of Door County, said stress might come from the breaking up of normal routines and habits during all the movement and holiday activities.

Erickson suggested in the ADRC’s December newsletter that those who feel anxiety or stress over the holidays take a moment to ask for help and adjust expectations so that everyone can feel completely comfortable. For those visiting relatives with disabilities, Erickson said keeping the needs of loved ones in mind when planning can go a long way in ensuring a happy holiday season.