Tips for celebrating Thanksgiving during a pandemic

Celebrating Thanksgiving During a Pandemic

It’s been months since social distancing became part of everyday life because of COVID-19.

Just as many of us are becoming pandemic fatigued, America’s second favorite holiday, Thanksgiving, is right around the corner. For moms, dads, brothers, sisters and especially grandparents missing their children and grandchildren, there may be an even stronger desire to celebrate with family this year. But is it a good idea?

According to CDC guidelines, the safest bet is to stay home and avoid indoor gatherings with individuals who are not usually together. Travel increases the chance of getting and spreading Coronavirus. CNN Health reports that Dr. Jonathan Reiner, professor of medicine at George Washington University, said he’d advise people to consider not having indoor Thanksgiving dinners with others who aren’t in their immediate household. “The consequences of this virus, particularly for older folks — the people that we really want to gather with on Thanksgiving — can be really dire,” he said.

So what are the alternatives? Of course, you can celebrate Turkey Day with the people who live in your household. You can also enjoy your feast with extended family members via Zoom. To keep the meaning of the holiday at the forefront, everyone on the conference call can share what they’re thankful for this year. (Many will probably say “technology,” which has allowed us to stay in touch while staying apart.) And, if your relatives live down the street or a few towns over, you can always prepare and deliver a meal to them with contactless delivery.

Should you decide to spend time with family and friends outside of your household, it’s best to host your gathering outside. You might even visit a pumpkin patch or orchard as long as you wear a mask and maintain at least six feet of distance from others.

While many may feel disappointment by not being able to celebrate Thanksgiving in the usual way this year, there is good news. By protecting yourself and loved ones, you can look forward to being back together non-virtually next year.

Dina Kadan White2023-11-09T17:22:21+00:00November 9th, 2020|

About the Author: Dina Kadan White

As Vice President of Kadan Homecare, White oversees the day-to-to day operations and assists with strategic planning for company. White has worked with Kadan full-time for the past 11 years, although she has been engaged with the family-run firm at some level for most of her adult life. Prior to joining Kadan, White served as Director of Product Development at Equifax and previously was a Marketing Director with Wachovia. These jobs prepared her well for a position where she works for the benefit of all aspects of this highly client-focused agency. White holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from the Georgia Institute of Technology. She is a member of the National Private Duty Association, a membership organization for firms whose homecare model is to employ, train, monitor and supervise caregivers, create a plan of care for the client and work toward a safe and secure environment for the person at home. White is also a member of the National Association for Home Care and Hospice.