From Prep to Party: Tips for Smooth Holiday Gatherings

There’s no place like home for the holidays! As we look forward to enjoying the holiday season for many, that means gathering around the dining table with loved ones. There are usually many holiday traditions associated with meals, and they require time, effort, planning, and money. As we age, we have to adapt to our abilities, which may not be sufficient for certain tasks without proper planning or assistance. For example, it may not be such a good idea for grandpa to climb up on the roof to hang decorations like he always used to do. Let’s look at a few ways you can set the table for a successful holiday gathering with loved ones!

Set Expectations & Budget

Before making plans, talk openly with your family and friends about what everyone hopes for this year. Make a list of questions and topics to discuss. Who’s hosting? How many people are coming? Will it be a casual potluck, sit-down dinner, or weekend stay? Setting expectations early helps avoid misunderstandings later. If you are participating financially or assisting with planning, set a budget and make a shopping list before starting to make purchases.

Downsize Where Necessary

While planning and prepping, you may need to make changes to accommodate all guests. This may include consideration of time, travel, diet, space, and activities. If you have aging loved ones with changing abilities, they may need an earlier start time, less travel, and accessibility. Keeping safety in mind when preparing for a big gathering will help reduce accidents such as falls. “Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults ages 65 years and older. Over 14 million, or 1 in 4 older adults report falling every year” (CDC). Stick to the basic things that are at the top of the list rather than worrying about things you can live without. Sometimes doing a few things to the best that they can be is better than doing too many things at once.

Adapt to Situation

Unforeseen circumstances may occur, and we have to make the best out of them. Try to remain flexible and have a backup plan in mind. Maybe someone can’t make it, you run out of time to make a dish, or the activity you ordered didn’t arrive on time in the mail. When people have varying abilities or are living with a chronic condition, they may need to conserve energy, have accessibility needs, or an adjusted environment. What will the volume level be? How about the temperature and lighting? Think of the 5 senses and the space you are using for the gathering and make changes where they’re needed.

Remember What Matters Most

Communication is key so that everyone is on the same page. Downsizing things doesn’t mean a celebration is any less special or fun. When everyone can enjoy each other’s company in a comfortable environment, that is a successful gathering. At the end of the day, try not to sweat the little things and keep the bigger picture in mind when planning and preparing for an event. Wishing everyone a safe and festive holiday season!

Resources

Respite Care Services - https://www.seniorhelpers.com/tx/texas-hill-country/services/respite-care/

50 Quick and Easy Holiday Recipes - https://www.foodnetwork.com/holidays-and-parties/packages/holidays/holiday-central-quick-and-easy/quick-and-easy-holiday-recipes

“Older Adult Falls Data.”Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 28 Oct. 2024 - https://www.cdc.gov/falls/data-research/index.html