Thanksgiving is an excellent opportunity to help your senior feel loved and appreciated. It is the perfect time of the year for family gatherings, so you shouldn’t skip the celebration. Even though the pandemic continues to interfere with our daily routines, there are some ways to safely enjoy good food and spend quality time with your senior.
Thanksgiving usually is emotionally difficult for most seniors. It can make them feel stressed, lonely, and sad. But if you take the necessary precautions, you can still enjoy this celebration. Here’s what you need to do!
- Include loved ones, but keep the gathering small!
The first thing you need to do is consider the current pandemic. If you and your loved ones are vaccinated, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can gather all the family and have a big celebration. Instead, for the safety and wellbeing of your loved one, you should keep the gathering small. A family celebration with your senior will lift your loved one’s spirit, even if it is a small reunion. - Consider your senior’s dietary needs!
Thanksgiving is popular because of its delicious recipes and tasty treats. But before you jump into an overly complicated menu, you should take a moment to consider your senior’s dietary needs. Think about his medical conditions, food restrictions, and any other needs he might have. Always encourage your loved one not to overeat with a gentle tone. It will help your loved one feel better and enjoy Thanksgiving. - Ensure everyone is having fun and socializing!
Well, the purpose of organizing a small gathering to celebrate Thanksgiving with your senior loved one is to help him socialize and have fun. Sharing a Thanksgiving meal is an excellent opportunity to take a break from a tedious routine. So, it is the perfect time to talk about memories with your loved ones, organize old photos, or play a fun family game. - Be mindful of health!
As mentioned at the beginning of this article, the current context of the pandemic makes us more cautious about health. The holidays might be a vulnerable time for all of us, but seniors are more exposed than ever! If you or other family members are ill, be mindful! This means you shouldn’t participate in a Thanksgiving meal with a senior loved one since he is more susceptible to catching many illnesses quickly. Remember that depression, cold, flu, and many other conditions can be more prevalent during the cold season.
The Takeaway
Thanksgiving is a stressful time for caregivers and family members of seniors. But you should enjoy this time of the year and allow yourself to have a break. You can start by preparing special meals for your loved ones and asking for help from a home care specialist. A professional caregiver can turn out to be of valuable help at any time!
As a caregiver, it is easy to lose sight of your own needs. Of course, it is your responsibility to make sure your loved one is comfortable and happy. But we highly encourage you to focus on yourself, too. Both things can be accomplished by prioritizing time and asking for help when needed.