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How To Host Holiday Gatherings After Downsizing to Senior Living

The holiday season is about feeling joy and gratitude, no matter where you’re celebrating or who you’re celebrating with. 

If you’re thinking of moving to a senior living community and have doubts about hosting your annual festivities in a smaller space, worry no more. At The Moorings of Arlington Heights, residents plan holiday parties with just as much excitement and with less responsibility.

It’s more than possible to carry on with cherished holiday traditions while making new memories at our senior living community

We’ll share why moving into a smaller residence leaves more room for older adults to find happiness and how to host unforgettable holiday celebrations, below.

The benefits of downsizing to a senior living community

 

Downsizing from your current home to a senior living community doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, it can be incredibly liberating. Here are just a few ways in which you can benefit from downsizing:

 

  • Less stuff.

Your family home may be filled with furniture, decor, appliances and clothes you no longer use. Downsizing is the perfect time to rid yourself of household clutter that isn’t important to you and keep the objects that have meaning. Whether you donate items to charity, pass them along to family members, or throw them away, you’ll feel better when they’re not just taking up space.

  • No more home maintenance.

At a senior living community, all indoor and outdoor maintenance is taken care of for you. This means you’ll be able to spend time taking part in activities you enjoy and not worrying about daily household chores.

  • True, worry-free living.

With every service and amenity and level of care provided in one place, the convenience of downsizing will be worth the move. No more property taxes or utility bills to pay, either. Just the comfort of a perfectly sized residence met with 24/7 support.

Now that you understand the major benefits of downsizing, you can feel more confident in hosting festivities.

 

 

 

10 tips for hosting holiday gatherings in your senior living apartment home

 

1. Plan ahead with staff.

Let staff know you’re thinking of hosting a holiday party. They can help you move furniture to make space and assist guests in finding your residence on the big day. They can also help with decorations and cleanup.

2. Stick to one theme or activity.

Don’t overwhelm yourself or your guests with too many activities or food choices. Think of an easy game to play, a holiday-themed arts and crafts activity, or a movie to watch.

3. Keep the guest list manageable.

Inviting fewer guests allows for a more intimate celebration and makes food preparation and activities easier as well.

4. Ask guests to bring food and drinks instead of gifts.

You just downsized. There’s no need for more stuff. Encourage your guests to show their thanks to the host by contributing a dish, potluck-style.

5. Be selective about decorations.

Bring out a few of your favorite holiday decorations for guests to enjoy without going overboard.

6. Consider an open house-style gathering.

If you can’t seem to narrow down your guest list, try an open house-style party. Keep your door open, and invite guests to come and go as they please during a set window of time.

7. Ensure there’s enough seating.

Your guests should feel comfortable and safe during your gathering. Make sure seating is available for everyone.

8. Make cleanup as easy as possible.

Use holiday-themed disposable plates, silverware and cups, and keep extra trash bags handy. 

9. Take advantage of group spaces.

Many communities offer party rooms or communal spaces for residents to “rent out” for larger gatherings. If you have a pretty full guest list, make sure to ask staff about this option as an alternative to coordinating a party in your residence.

10. Live in the moment.

Finally, enjoy the time spent with family and friends. Live in the present and make the most out of this special time.

Create new memories at The Moorings.


Feel right at home in our welcoming Life Plan Community in Arlington Heights, Illinois. Enjoy active independent living without having to worry about household chores and maintenance. You’ll have the perfect amount of space in your apartment home or villa to host gatherings for the holidays and beyond. Learn more about every aspect of our vibrant lifestyle.