How to Prepare Your Home for the Holidays

Happy holiday season from Freedom Home Care! It’s time for that run of food-related events that takes us from Thanksgiving on through to New Years Day. It’s time for candied yams, jingle bells, and gobble-gobble. If you are expecting grandchildren to visit, or maybe just a few adults, there are some things you can do to get your home in order.

 

Freedom Home Care Highland Park reminds you that November is also American Diabetes Month. This is a good reminder of the special food preparation we can do for some of our guests. The holidays are especially difficult for diabetics. The temptations of candy, sweet desserts, and alcohol is great. but the carbs in Thanksgiving favorites like mashed potatoes and yams is also something to watch out for. Planning ahead ensures that those loved ones suffering from diabetes won’t feel left out of the food festivities. Family caregivers can advise hosts on some dishes to ensure everyone feels included.

Fridge, Freezer and Pantry

Before food planning even starts is the time to clean and organize the refrigerator. Throw out expired food and stock up on things that your guests may request, such as plenty of bottled water and juice boxes for the little ones. Same goes for the pantry, keep some emergency snacks on hand just in case. If you plan on doing a lot of cooking and baking, taking inventory of the pantry will ensure that you have all the ingredients you need. Extra coffee and paper towels are good to have on hand as well.

Closets and Storage Areas

Time to organize closets and storage areas! Make sure you know where extra sheets and towels are for overnight guests. Buy some extra toothpaste and toothbrushes for guests who forget theirs, as well as toiletries such as razors, shaving cream, soap, and shampoo. Stock up on toilet paper too!

 

If you are accommodating overnight guests, do a thorough cleaning of guest rooms. Dust, vacuum, put new sheets on the bed, and get things in tiptop shape for your guests. If you can spare closet space, make sure guests have enough of it to hang their clothes so they will feel right at home.

Have your hot water heater and HVAC system checked out and test your generator. Also, test smoke detectors and replace batteries as needed. It’s good to have a flashlight somewhere you can easily find in case of a power outage. Childproof your home if young children are expected.

We hope this helps you have a fantastic holiday full of family, friends, and fun. Stay up to date with our homecare news and visit us online today! Learn more about our home care agency and home health agency services today at freedom medical staffing.