Thanksgiving is an ideal time to reflect on the year and show appreciation for family and friends.

It is also an excellent time to check in on older loved ones and compare their habits to those of years past. If you notice a change in an elderly family members health or demeanor, speak with them about it. Offer to schedule or accompany them to an appointment with their healthcare provider to ensure their health is in check, their medications are being properly managed, and their vital signs are within a healthy range.

Here are some additional tips for caring for seniors during the holidays:

• Keep seniors safe in your home by removing obstacles and clutter that could cause a fall and remove or secure area rugs.

• Seat your loved ones at the table in place where he or she has plenty of room to eat and move around.

• Make time to converse with older loved ones. Try to bridge generation gaps by asking each person to share a story or memory about the holidays.

Happy thanksgiving from our families to yours!