Creating a Thanksgiving invisibly disabled people can participate in and enjoy takes advance planning and some imagination and even ingenuity.
Sometimes, it’s hard for a person to be thankful when he’s hurting or she’s sidelined. Or maybe he’s just received an unwanted diagnosis. Perhaps she’s going through a time of exacerbation.
Here are some ideas for you challenged people to stimulate the gratitude process and tips to make it easier to join in the fun.
For you friends of the dwellers, we’ve included ideas for helping. As always, know your friend and be sensitive to their desires.
My most memorable Thanksgiving, as to needing help, was a year I was extremely weak and barely able to get out of bed. The ladies from our Church furnished all the food except the turkey which Joe cooked. One lady even brought delicious homemade cinnamon rolls for breakfast! What a day of thanks that turned out to be.
So, what do you, dweller, wish for this year? Or what can you, observer, help with?
Start with attitude: it can make the difference between an awful time and memories to savor. But sometimes, a physically challenged individual needs a little - or much - help to improve the day.
Ideas and Tips for Dwellers
Apply the gift of humor
- Be on the lookout for things to smile or laugh about.
- Watch a funny movie.
- Read a joke book.
Practice negative gratitude
In a wheelchair outside, but can walk inside
When you’re reminded again of something you can’t do, flip that around and realize what you can still do.
Can’t walk far? Are you able to still walk around your house?
Can’t cook Thanksgiving dinner? But can you still do personal activities for yourself?
Feeling left out? Is there even one person who cares? At least God does - even though it may not always feel like it
Give thanks
Thanks for the grandkids and their creation
- Is there even one person in your life who knows you?
- If you have family who cares, you’re truly blessed.
- Do you have good medical personnel - a big one for us? Be thankful.
- If you can think of nothing else, remember this: you can still breathe. Else you wouldn’t be reading this. 😎
Planning
- Simplify anything you can - meals, decorations, accommodations for company.
- Be gracious when someone offers help.
- Ask for help when appropriate. It can be hard to ask for help, especially when you need so much assistance.
Helpful actions for Observers
- Take food over, but check first for likes and allergies and about times.
- Offer to help cleanup afterward.
- Invite your friend and his family to your house, maybe for dessert if you or they are not up to a meal.
- See if she’d like help decorating her house.
- Ask if help is needed to clean the house in preparation for company.
- Give smiles and hugs.
- Make a call or visit.
- Send a card.
- If nothing else, prayer is always available.
Sending wishes for a fantastically grateful Thanksgiving!
In conclusion, whether you’re disabled or fully able, enjoy this Thanksgiving!
