Bonding Virtually for the Upcoming Holidays

While we know the holidays are fast approaching, we also understand we are in the middle of a pandemic.  This has left many of us asking how we make the holidays feel special while practicing safe social distancing with family members not part of our quarantine group.    

Currently health experts stress large family gatherings are not advisable.  This is because COVID-19 cases are often traced back to younger people spreading it to older relatives who are more at risk for serious complications.  However, despite the sadness we feel by not having our usual huge Thanksgiving gathering or Christmas parties, there are still ways we can bond with family and friends and have fun doing it.  

To successfully do a group Zoom or FaceTime call with several branches of the family, assign one person to set the call up, coordinating time, etc. with all parties.  For Thanksgiving, you could organize a call during dinner and encourage everyone to share a special family story or give a reason why they are grateful.   If you are a family of singers, organize a virtual group sing.  If your family loves to cook, prepare a virtual meal together.  

To make sure the kids feel part of the celebrations, have them dress-up or use puppets to perform the first Thanksgiving or Christmas story virtually.  This also has the advantage of keeping them busy several days before the holiday preparing.  Another idea is to watch the grandkids making holiday cookies or to send them a care package with a craft that you can make with them together.  In other words, use your imagination and remember someday soon we will again be celebrating together.  

The CDC suggests before you plan any in-person events to check with the positivity rate in your community.  In addition, remember to follow your state’s health and safety laws, rules, and regulations regarding group gatherings.  

At MorningStar of Happy Valley we offer area seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  We have 61 private assisted living suites that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  Our Reflections Neighborhood provides 27 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.   Please see our website to learn more.

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care.