Some seniors choose to abstain from drinking alcohol for personal health reasons, but this doesn’t mean they need to be excluded from participating in New Year’s Eve festivities. They can still ring in the New Year and have some fun with family and friends without partaking in alcohol. Green Valley elder home care professionals have put together a list of some tasty non-alcoholic beverages you can serve your loved one this New Year’s Eve.
1. Winter Lemonade
Winter lemonade can be prepared in just a few minutes with products most people already have in their kitchens. Instead of using sweetened alcohols that can negatively impact your loved one’s blood sugar levels, this drink is flavored with honey, cinnamon, and lemons. With the added honey, it is also a great option if your loved one has a sore throat and congestion because of the cold weather.
2. Mexican Hot Chocolate
Seniors who would like a drink to Warm them up on New Year’s Eve don’t need to settle for strong liquors that can severely impact their heart health. Mexican hot chocolate derives much of its flavor from chili, cinnamon, and fresh cocoa. Using soy milk instead of traditional milk turns this exciting drink into a low-calorie beverage.
3. Mulled Cranberry Apple Cider
Though some mulled drinks contain wine, their alcohol content is generally so low that they are no longer classified as alcoholic beverages. This drink is packed with vibrant flavors, including orange zest, allspice, and cloves. Instead of using processed sugar, consider sweetening it with honey or organic maple syrup.
4. Cranberry Wassail
This traditional drink is often served at winter celebrations throughout Europe. Though it is similar to mulled apple cider, cranberry wassail has a slightly brighter flavor due to the ginger and pineapple. It is an excellent alternative to alcoholic wassails that might interact with your loved one’s medication.
5. Kumquat Spritzer
Fizzy drinks like mimosas are popular during winter parties, but champagne can trigger chronic pain due to the large dose of sulfites. In a kumquat spritzer, the champagne is replaced with soda water and dried pink peppercorns. If your loved one doesn’t like kumquats, practically any fresh fruit can be used, including strawberries, mangos, and lemons.
If you also need some ideas for healthy snacks to serve your loved one this New Year’s Eve, reach out to Embrace In-Home Care. Our caregivers are available 24/7 to prepare nutritious meals, assist with mobility and exercise, and help with daily tasks like bathing, grooming, and dressing. For more information on the respite and 24-hour care Green Valley, AZ, families trust, call one of our experienced Care Managers at (520) 625-2050 to schedule a complimentary consultation.