No matter what you like to call it, all that matters is that you and your loved ones are gathered around the table, enjoying whatever you choose!
The holiday season is supposed to be filled with family, love, and being together, but it can also overwhelm us. 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 reduce kitchen traffic. Multiple choices can also help even the most selective palates enjoy the food.
Ask guests to wear their ugliest holiday sweaters to add some fun. If your family will not enjoy that, 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 hold a family event on-site for a few hours. This allows them to access 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. Buying gifts for some folks can feel impossible 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, 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 the holiday with a loved one at an Edgewood assisted living or memory care community, email us at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com.
