We all know that Thanksgiving is more than just stuffing ourselves silly. It’s about family, friends, and making everyone feel at home. If you’re hosting this year, you might be frantically Googling “gluten-free stuffing” for that second cousin with dietary restrictions or pondering how to make Uncle Joe’s wheelchair fit through the kitchen. While this might feel more complicated than following a recipe with half the ingredients missing, we’ve got inclusive Thanksgiving tips and tricks that’ll streamline your hosting duties and might just earn you the “Host of the Year” award!
Tips to Improve Physical Accessibility of Thanksgiving Gathering
The location of your Thanksgiving gathering can make or break the whole experience, especially if you’ve got family members who need a little extra assistance getting around. Since many homes might have narrow staircases or tight hallways, it’s important to make the following adjustments so everyone can move around easily:
Arrange Step-Free or Ramp Entrances
If your front door has two to three steps, consider setting up a portable ramp. Your local hardware store or online retailer may have a range of options; however, it can be a bit expensive. So why not rent a ramp from Clock Mobility.
These portable ramps feature slip-resistant surfaces for rainy days and rails along the sides to prevent any unfortunate wheel-off incidents. Even better, they’re easy to fold, disassemble, or adjust in length to fit your unique setup.
Clear Pathways
Cluttered pathways might lead to tumbles and falls. To avoid that, move the furniture aside, store those scattered shoes, roll up those area rugs, and make sure there is plenty of space for people using wheelchairs, walkers, or anyone who needs a bit more room to maneuver. A good rule of thumb? If you have to squeeze yourself sideways to get through a space, it’s time to redecorate.
Host on a Single Level to Avoid Stairs
Stairs can be deal-breakers for people with mobility issues or those with balance concerns. If you’ve got multiple floors, try to keep the party on one level. If that’s not possible, rent a stairlift or designate a strong cousin or two to assist with any necessary ascents or descents.
Adjust Table Heights
When setting up your Thanksgiving feast, keep table heights in mind. Your epic spread should be accessible to everyone, including those in wheelchairs or with limited reach. A height of around 28-30 inches often works well. When in doubt, test it out. Before the guests arrive, sit at the table and see if it feels natural.
Arrange Accessible Seating
Your seating arrangement is just as important as table height. Mix and match your seating to accommodate everyone. Pull out some sturdy chairs with arms for those who need a little extra support, set up some bean bags for youngsters who want to lounge while munching, and designate an area with plenty of space to maneuver for wheelchairs.
Chairs should be close to the dining area but clear of high-traffic zones so that everyone can comfortably enjoy their turkey and pie without elbowing their way in. Don’t forget to test out those chairs beforehand. If it’s wobbling under your toddler’s weight, it’s going to be a disaster for Grandpa. Keep a few cushions nearby so guests with back issues can sit comfortably.
Don’t Forget Restroom Accessibility
After all that pumpkin pie and apple cider, restroom visits are inevitable. Ensure that at least one bathroom is easily accessible. Install grab bars and a raised toilet seat, and place toilet paper extra close to the seat. Also, make sure that there are no slippery rugs lying around that might pose a tripping hazard. Keeping a sturdy chair nearby can also provide some extra stability.
Signpost Accessible Routes Throughout Your Space
Guests may feel anxious or embarrassed if they’re unsure where they can and cannot go. However, clear signage could go a long way. Label rooms with big, bold letters or even fun pictures. This will help anyone struggling with memory or orientation navigate your home easily.
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Decorate with Care
We all love those twinkly lights, radiant pumpkins, and festive figurines that scream “Thanksgiving cheer!” But instead of going overboard with flashy decorations or candles that smell like a Hawaiian luau, let’s keep it simple. Opt for natural elements — think low-lying decorations, unscented candles, and soft, warm lighting. That way, no one would trip over the life-sized turkey statue you thought was a great idea at the time.
Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment
While it might be tempting to turn your Thanksgiving feast into a karaoke night, the holiday buzz can be a bit overwhelming for some. To avoid sensory overload, create cozy corners with soft lighting, calming music, and maybe even a few fidget toys.
Set up a Kid-Friendly Corner
If you’ve got an energetic toddler or a moody teen on your guest list, you’ll need a game plan to keep them entertained. Dedicate a kid-friendly corner with toys, coloring books, puzzles, or perhaps an iPad with kid-approved apps. A simple craft station with Thanksgiving-themed activities can keep those little hands busy — just avoid glitter unless you’re ready to pick sparkles out of your famous gravy.
Be Mindful of Food Sensitivities
Thanksgiving feast usually includes roasted turkey legs, crispy brussel sprouts, buttery mashed potatoes, and pecan pies. But before you start whipping that up, ask your guests about any dietary restrictions. Ideally, you should make a variety of dishes that vegetarians, vegans, and lactose-intolerant guests can enjoy. You can even make cute little labels for dishes highlighting common allergens like nuts, gluten, and dairy.
Plan Inclusive Activities and Games
After you’ve stuffed yourself to the point of no return, it’s time for some post-turkey fun! You can play Pictionary, Bingo, Scrabble, or Uno. They’re easy to learn and can accommodate bigger groups or guests with mobility issues. But avoid Monopoly unless you’re prepared to end up in a family feud before the turkey’s fully digested.
If you’ve got a projector, how about a movie marathon? Pick classics or feel-good films with subtitles for the hearing impaired and avoid anything too high-speed for those with vision difficulties.
Prioritize Accessible Parking
You might have the most mouth-watering pumpkin pie on the block, but if Grandpa can’t find a parking spot close enough, he might just roll away. To avoid any unpleasant scenario, reserve the closest spots to your place for older family members or guests with mobility issues. Also, clear driveway or yard space for easy drop-off or pick-up.
If you live in a neighborhood with limited street parking, consider bribing your neighbors with some leftover pumpkin pie to share their driveway or parking space for the day.
Secure Your Ride with Clock Mobility
If your Aunt Sally needs a ride for Thanksgiving dinner or any disabled guests plan to carpool with you to attend that holiday parade downtown, Clock Mobility has you covered. We offer reliable, wheelchair-accessible vehicles for sale and for rent!
Besides transport, we also provide portable ramps and residential stairlifts to make your home more accessible during the holiday season. We even offer various car maintenance services, so you won’t be stuck in your driveway with unbaked pie and no dinner. For information about our rentals, inventory, or services, call us at (866) 380-3326 or visit one of our four locations in Michigan.