Thanksgiving is a time when relatives and friends get together and give thanks. It is a traditional holiday to celebrate the end of the harvest. Many seniors look forward to this time as a day they can spend with their families. Some senior’s family homes are still considered the place to go for children and grandchildren. Traditionally a meal is served with turkey, stuffing, potatoes and everything that goes with it. For many families this is a yearly holiday that starts off the beginning of the Christmas season.
How can seniors celebrate Thanksgiving this year?
- For seniors who are celebrating the holiday with other elderly people, try a new menu. Some seniors have chewing problems and while mashed potatoes may work for everyone, turkey may be difficult for them to eat. Try turkey soup with smaller pieces of turkey on the side.
- Thanksgiving can be a good day to do crafts. Decorations can be made not only for this holiday but think ahead to Christmas and get started on gifts and decorations for the festive season.
- For those seniors who are spending time with their grandchildren tell stories of how you spent Thanksgiving Day when you were their age. Bake some holiday treats together with a Thanksgiving Day theme.
- The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade starts at 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning. If you can’t attend the parade you can watch it on television.
- Spend time with friends and family making a list of things you are most thankful for.
- Thanksgiving Day is also known as a day for watching football. If you have football fans in your family, organize a football event for this day.
Seniors can also look for local events in their communities. Many towns host their own Thanksgiving Day parades. Senior centers have dinners you can attend or you can volunteer to help out with the meal. Whichever way you celebrate this holiday, remember, it is about being thankful for what you have!
