5 Ways to Make Thanksgiving More Enjoyable for Your Senior Loved One

Spending the day with family and friends is one of the things that people love most about Thanksgiving. Well, that and the feast, of course! However, as people get older, holidays can be stressful and overwhelming. And, if a person no longer has the appetite that they once had or if they can’t eat certain foods, it can really put a damper on the entire day! In this article, we will share five ways to make this year’s Thanksgiving more enjoyable for your senior loved one.

Make Travel Comfortable or Celebrate at Home

If your senior loved one is traveling, make the journey as comfortable as possible. Bring a blanket to keep them warm, a support cushion for comfort, and be sure to leave extra time for rest stops. For air travel, dress them in layers so they can adjust to cabin temperatures and encourage stretching when safe. If traveling isn’t an option, consider bringing Thanksgiving to them with a potluck or a pre-ordered meal from a local Southbridge restaurant or grocery store. And, of course, make sure that your loved one is not saddled with any of the planning or cleanup duties.

Respect Their Food Choices

If your loved one is on a special diet due to health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or a reduced appetite, make sure you include options such as low-sodium dishes, sugar-free desserts, or smaller portion sizes so they can choose what works best for them without feeling singled out. And, if they decline something for whatever reason, respect their choice and don’t pressure them to eat something they don’t want to.

Choose Meaningful, Low-Key Activities

One of the best ways to make Thanksgiving more enjoyable for your senior is to include activities they’ll enjoy, such as watching the parade, tuning into a football game, reminiscing over photos, or playing simple games. If they like cooking, involve them in easy, manageable tasks like stirring or peeling to help them feel included.

Create a Comfortable Environment

Large gatherings can be overwhelming for anyone, particularly for someone who has hearing loss, mobility challenges, or cognitive difficulties. Keep noise levels manageable by lowering the volume on music and televisions. Providing a comfortable, quiet space for rest can be a great way to help them recharge if the festivities become too much.

Encourage family members to take turns spending one-on-one time with your senior loved one, sharing stories, or looking through photos. These moments are key to making sure the day remains joyful and stress-free.

End the Day with Gratitude

Wrap up Thanksgiving on a warm note by expressing your appreciation for everyone’s presence. Share a meaningful conversation or a cherished memory, and if they’re traveling home, ensure they’re prepared and comfortable for the journey. You might even want to pack them an extra piece of pie for them to enjoy later!

Visiting Angels is Here to Help

With a little extra thought and care, you can make this Thanksgiving enjoyable and stress-free for your senior loved one.

If you need extra support, Visiting Angels Southbridge can help make the holiday season smoother. Our compassionate caregivers can assist with meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation, and companionship, ensuring your senior loved one feels cared for and included.

For more tips on supporting your senior loved ones or assistance with daily home care, give us a call at (508) 764-6700 or fill out our contact form. Our compassionate caregivers are here to help your family year-round and look forward to spending the holidays with you as well.