Adapting Family Traditions for an Aging Loved One in Baltimore County
Hosting Family Meals and Events This Holiday Season
In many families, the matriarch or patriarch historically hosts the holiday gathering. But as you likely are well aware, hosting is a lot of work, and it can be exhausting for anyone. Talk to your loved one to gauge their feelings about having another relative host this year. Or, if possible, offer to hold the event at your house, and invite your loved one to bring a dish to share or come over early to help prepare the meal.
Be gentle in approaching this conversation. Sometimes people are reluctant to “give up” or modify long-standing holiday traditions. Your loved one may perceive the changes as being a burden or losing their place in the family. We recommend not pressing the issue too much unless there’s a real safety concern. Instead, offer to help with whatever tasks your loved one needs or will allow you to do, such as holiday prep work, cleaning, or cooking.
This year, consider asking family members to contribute funds for the holiday meal to ease the financial burden on the host. Another way to divvy up the cost and effort of the event is to assign family members to bring certain items or do certain tasks. Sit down with your loved one and make a list of everything that has to be purchased, planned, or made for the event to be successful. Then create a list of everyone who plans to attend, and assign tasks or purchases to each person based on their skills and abilities. For example, disposable plates, cups, and silverware are convenient but often costly. You could offer to help by purchasing these items.
Changing Diets or Food-Related Health Concerns
If your aging loved one has diabetes, high blood pressure, or another health concern, holiday food and beverage choices can be a touchy conversation. But with a few exceptions and some planning, it’s usually safe for most people to indulge a bit for one day.
That said, you’ll have to be mindful of certain health conditions. For example, if your loved one’s blood sugar is hard to control, you’ll need to talk with their doctor or home health nurse about how to safely indulge in a slice of Aunt Nancy’s famous chocolate pie. The provider can help adjust insulin or medication for high blood pressure to accommodate for the rich or high-sodium treats your loved one might want to enjoy that day.
As we age, our health needs and abilities change. It’s natural that traditions also have to evolve, but sometimes it can be tough to accept that things aren't like they used to be. Different doesn’t have to mean bad. Talk to your loved one and find a happy middle ground so you can enjoy a memorable and fun holiday together.
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Source: https://www.brightstarcare.com/blog/family-tradition-holidays
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