As we get further into the holiday season, it is more than likely that most of us will come into contact with some of our elderly family members. I know I'm looking forward to the endless reminders of how my jeans have rips in them, and playing referee while my older relatives extol the virtues of their college alma maters, encouraging me to choose wisely (with a wink, wink and not-so-gentle elbow nudge). I'll laugh joyfully as I hear the same family story for the 47th time, cringe appropriately at all the helpful comments about how I need to eat more, and I'll relish all the extra hugs and kisses.

While some people are exhausted at the thought of fielding what can be repetitive questions about school, work, and relationships from these family members, now is the time to be appreciative of our elders. In my own family, my grandparents have been challenged by new health issues, influencing each of us to discover strengths we didn't know we had, and to work together to uncover answers to very difficult questions. It is thanks to my grandparents that my family has grown so much closer, and I cannot wait to use this time with them to show them how grateful I am for their presence in my life.

In today's day and age, it is all too common that senior citizens are taken for granted, even though they represent 14.5% of the population. The truth is, the elderly have a lot to offer younger generations. With 50+ years of valuable life experience, they have the ability to offer advice, tell stories, and listen to others in a way that our peers often cannot. The unfortunate thing is that as the holiday season becomes more and more stressful, meaningful interactions with the senior citizens in our communities often get pushed to the back burner. Sadly enough, 1 in 10 adults aged 65 and older say they feel they aren't needed or are a burden to others. Additionally, 43% of senior citizens report feeling lonely on a regular basis.

No one should feel this way, especially not around the holidays. The senior citizens in your life are probably going through more than you know. The time is now to be more tolerant, loving, and grateful for your grandparents, great-aunts and uncles, and neighbors. Make an effort to give your grandma an extra hug the next time you see her, shovel your aging neighbor's driveway, or even take the time to visit a local nursing home. 85% of nursing home residents don't receive any visitors, so your company and kindness would be much appreciated there. Even the smallest gesture of love can make the biggest impact.