Cooking for the holidays can be hectic but fun and even those who have been diagnosed with dementia can still enjoy creating some of their favorite holiday meals. At Senior Helpers Frederick, we know it is important to continue your holiday traditions. With a few tweaks to food preparation, some simple planning, and some help in the kitchen, cooking for the holidays can still be enjoyable.
K.I.S.S.
Keep It Simple and Stress-free may be a great acronym for your holiday cooking this year. Opt for easy-to-prepare recipes that have few ingredients. Or use items that can be embellished from the grocery store. Store-bought pie shells, pre-made rolls, bagged salad, or even slice-and-bake cookies may not be the same as your homemade, but your guests will probably not even notice.
Simplify the menu. It is not really necessary to have that many different desserts! Choose family favorites and omit those items that aren't as popular or are too complex to prepare.
Make a List and Check It Twice
Decide on your menu and stick to it. Having a list in a prominent place, such as on the refrigerator, is a great way to check the ingredient inventory and determine what can be made before the big day. You could even include when to bake the pies or when to thaw the turkey. This helps to establish a timeline and to break down the tasks so not everything must be done at the same time. As each task is completed, simply place a checkmark next to it and move on to the next.
Ask for Help
Even Santa has helpers. So ask someone if they would like to come over to help you bake or prepare other menu items. Better yet, ask your guests to each bring an item on your menu. If your sister is the only one who loves cranberry salad, ask her to bring it this year. Generally, your guests will enjoy contributing to the holiday meal.
And the other things that go along with the holiday meal can be delegated as well. Someone else can set the table, fix the drinks, or do the dishes. Do not be afraid to ask for help.
Play Some Tunes
Nothing is quite as joyous as music playing in the background, especially during the holidays. Music is not only calming, but it brings together people from various generations. After all, everyone can sing Jingle Bells! Music is therapeutic and brings out the best in people. It is a great stress reliever and distraction. Music brings out emotions and holiday memories that connect you to your caregivers and family members.
Senior Helpers Frederick Can Help
Senior Helpers Frederick can help you get ready for your holiday meal. We have caregivers and companions who can help you with meal preparation and light housekeeping to ready you and your home for the season. We offer services in the Frederick, Hagerstown, Thurmont, and Middletown areas for those diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer's. Contact us today to find out more about our services.