Trick question. It’s whatever you like to call it; all that matters is that you and your loved ones are gathered around it!
The season is supposed to be filled with family, love, and being together, but it can also make us feel overwhelmed. From loved ones lost or suffering from health problems to self-imposed pressure to be the perfect host, navigating the season with a smile can be tricky.
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Seating charts, serving shellfish, and giving the latest and greatest gadgets as gifts are unimportant. What matters is being able to enjoy your time with those you love. We’ve got a couple of thoughts to bring what matters back to the heart of the occasion.
Entertain Casually
Celebrating with family or a group of friends doesn’t mean it has to happen on the actual date of the occasion or the holiday. Consider an open house-style gathering to accommodate schedules or host more than one event for larger families.
Asking guests to bring a dish to pass or serving appetizers may help relieve the pressure of serving one large meal and can also help reduce kitchen traffic. Multiple choices also help even the most selective of palates enjoy the food.
Add some fun by asking guests to dress in their ugliest holiday sweaters. If that’s not something your family will enjoy, consider a casual dress code for everyone.
Space, accessibility, and distance from loved ones can prevent being together. Think about hosting in an area that can accommodate everyone’s needs.
If your loved one lives in assisted living or memory care, ask if you can have a family event on-site for a few hours. This allows them access to staff who can meet their care needs. If you’re unfamiliar with providing personal care for adults, or you’re unable to help, this can be a great way to include the ones you love in a safe setting.
Give with Purpose
Gifts are fun, but they can be tricky too. Some people are impossible to buy gifts for because they already have it all. For someone who doesn’t require a formal gift, think about an act of service or giving to a local charity organization on their behalf.
Consider the gift of food, toys, coats, diapers, hygiene products, backpacks, and other important daily essentials that may be needed. Supplies aside, charity drives rely on extra pairs of hands to serve, pack, prep, cook, bake, clean, or be present.
Spending time is also a fantastic gift that can create lasting memories, especially for the young people in your life. Instead of a monetary donation, provide an experience. Spend a day at the zoo, check out a state park, or spend some time baking and cooking your family’s favorite recipes in the kitchen.
No matter how you gift it or celebrate it this year, we encourage you to enjoy every moment! If you’re interested in spending a holiday with a loved one who lives at an Edgewood assisted living or memory care community, drop us a line at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com.
