Think back to the past few holidays with your parents. Do they get tired earlier than in the past? How about you? Do you find yourself ready to go home right after dinner rather than staying there to watch a movie?
As you age, things do change. There may come a time when your mom and dad need you to adjust the gatherings. What can you do to make sure the holidays go smoothly?
Plan Smaller Gatherings
Instead of having dozens of family members, consider having a small dinner for your parents, children, and grandchildren. You can have aunts and uncles on another night. By keeping the gatherings smaller, it's less crowded and won't be overwhelming.
You could have a dinner for immediate family, a brunch for family friends, and lunch with cousins. Or, your parents may want to forgo a meal and just have people drop by in an open house.
What Do Your Parents Want?
Ask your parents who they most want to see and plan accordingly. If they're going to see everyone at the same time, come up with a plan that works for them. If your mom is asleep in bed by 8 p.m., plan a luncheon.
They may not want to have to cook or clean before guests arrive. If that's the case, make sure others are available to prepare meals and snacks and clean up before the gathering.
Book a Space
Ease stress by booking a private room in a restaurant, hotel, or reception hall. Hire catering to handle the appetizers and meal. You'll be able to relax and spend time with family while someone else cooks and cleans.
If the cost of a private venue is out of reach, ask family members to all contribute towards it instead of buying gifts. The time spent together will be significant. With people taking photos and videos, you'll have lasting memories.
Lay Ground Rules About the Spread of Viruses
Make sure you set rules for any gatherings you have. People cannot be ill or have been exposed to anything. If your sister's kids are still in school and strep throat is going around, they should sit out this year.
It will be hard, but it's best for everyone if viruses aren't being passed around. People can participate through a video call if they feel they're missing out.
Are You Giving Up Your Plans?
One of the most prevalent health conditions in the elderly is Alzheimer's disease. If your mom or dad has this type of dementia, it's not surprising to find them withdrawing from any social event. You don't have to give up your holiday plans to be with them.
Around-the-clock caregivers make sure your parents are never alone. With 24-hour home care, your mom and dad have caregivers there during the day and night. If insomnia keeps your mom up when your dad's trying to sleep, 24-hour home care services can help out. Call us today to learn more.
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE IS CONSIDERING 24-hour home care in Parrish, FL, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT HOME HELPERS OF BRADENTON. CALL TODAY: (941) 499-5946
