Thanksgiving is just around the corner and families across the country are preparing to celebrate the holiday season. Since COVID-19 continues to be a concern, here are some tips to help celebrate safely and keep seniors and their families healthy this year.
Celebrate Outdoors
If an in-person gathering is necessary, hold it outdoors. To keep everyone warm, use blankets and heat lamps when the temperature begins to drop. Having an outdoor celebration that spaces guests 6 feet apart is the safest way to celebrate in person since fresh air disperses respiratory droplets. People should wash or sanitize their hands before arriving and upon entering the location.
Clean all high-touch surfaces before and after the celebration. This includes bathroom countertops, faucets, toilet lids and handles, and doorknobs. Wipe down the bathroom during the gathering if it’s being used a lot during the festivities.
Use paper plates and single-use cutlery or invite guests to bring their own. Keep hand sanitizer at tables and encourage everyone to sanitize their hands as needed, particularly before getting food and drink. Set up a buffet-style feast and encourage guests to get their own meal.
Take Thanksgiving Virtual
Seniors who prefer to take extra precautions can join a virtual Thanksgiving celebration that takes place over Zoom or FaceTime. To make it festive and celebratory, send out an invitation, and when guests RSVP, have them include a recipe that everyone can make together. Drop off food to relatives who may not cook if that’s easier. When it comes to mealtime, sit down together at the computer and give thanks virtually.
Don’t forget to plan some activities. Ideas include making a list of people you’re grateful for and sharing the list with family members and friends. Other activities like watching movies can be shared across households using services like Netflix.
Make getting through the holiday season easier with help from Optimal Senior Care Solutions and our team of homemaking and companion caregivers. We offer support and care to seniors who need it in Newport Beach and Orange County, CA. Reach out to us today!
