How Families Can Celebrate Thanksgiving with Seniors in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties During the Pandemic
Here’s how families can safely celebrate Thanksgiving with senior loved ones in Scotts Valley, Santa Cruz and Marina, CA and how our caregivers can support seniors who are choosing not to travel this year
The COVID-19 pandemic will change the way families in the Central Coast region of California celebrate Thanksgiving this year. Some events will be cancelled. Most gatherings will be smaller. Families may avoid travelling altogether. However, there are many ways to celebrate while following safe health guidelines.
As always, you should wear masks, social distance and wash your hands often for added protection. At Visiting Angels Central Coast, we recommend these safe yet enjoyable activities for families celebrating the holiday with their senior loved ones, whether you’re together or celebrating in different parts of the country this year.
Make Thanksgiving Dinner Together
If you’ve determined it’s safe and your gathering is small, preparing Thanksgiving dinner can be fun for the whole family. Team up to make the mashed potatoes, stuffing and pumpkin pie. Set the table together with festive glassware or napkins and have senior family members and kids in charge of a special place card or decoration. Enjoy working together and bonding over shared activities.
Consider preparing senior-friendly dishes, like nutritious foods that are easy to chew. Discuss dietary restrictions and have a list of ingredients ready for those with allergies or special diets.
If your senior loved one is staying home on Thanksgiving, consider hiring a caregiver from Visiting Angels Central Coast to assist withmeal preparation. We can help prepare their favorite Thanksgiving foods, set the table, wash dishes, and provide meaningful companionship before, during, and after the meal.
Spend Quality Time with Your Loved Ones
If you were unable to visit because of the pandemic, the holiday is a great time to catch up. You can spend Thanksgiving Day watching favorite movies, TV shows or the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Reminiscing over past memories will bring multi-generation smiles, as children enjoy hearing stories about their parents and grandparents as youngsters. Try adult coloring books or a Thanksgiving craft. If your senior loved one is mobile, go for a walk around the neighborhood to get some fresh air.
If your senior loved one is staying home this Thanksgiving, our caregivers can provide meaningful companionship through our companion care services. In addition to helping prepare meals, we can also engage in conversation, participate in your loved one’s favorite activities and help making staying home for Thanksgiving a positive experience.
Connect Digitally and Enjoy Virtual Events
If it’s too risky to see your loved one in person, you can connect by telephone call or video chat. If your loved one needs phone help, consider theSocial Care program from Visiting Angels Central Coast. Our caregivers can teach your loved one how to call, text and FaceTime to stay in touch with friends and family over the holiday.
Many institutions are offering virtual events, such as museum tours and live-streamed concerts to enjoy from the comfort of home. Be creative about safe activities. You could take in a show at your local drive-in theatre from the safety of your vehicle or take a drive to see holiday light displays.
To learn how our caregivers can help your loved one safely enjoy Thanksgiving this year, contact our Scotts Valley or Marina, CA office today!
