Are you planning a birthday event for your parent who lives in an assisted living facility? Lucky for you, whether your parent will be away for the day, or whether special party food will be needed, the staff will probably be very happy to help you carry out whatever plans you want to make. 

Away From The Facility - Even before the birthday arrives, work closely with the staff at the assisted living facility.

• If you plan to take your parent out for the day, give ample notice that you'll want your parent to look extra special. Perhaps you'd like to bring a new outfit ahead of time.
• Write the information down so that there won't be any confusion about the date and time that your parent will be away for the day.
• It's also a good idea to make a small poster for to place in your parents' room. The poster will be a reminder that something special can be anticipated.
• The day before your mother or father's birthday, be sure to remind the staff of your plans.
• Make a list of everything that needs to be done so you can check things off the list as they are accomplished.

At The Facility - If you're having your parents' event at the assisted living facility, even more plans need to be made.

• Will everybody in the facility be invited to join in the dining room or in another special room? 
• Will you be decorating the area in which the party will be held?
• You'll need to talk to the food service manager if the facility uses a company like New Horizon Foods. For example, if extra friends or family members will be attending the event, the food service manager will need to know that.
• Perhaps you'll just be providing birthday cake and punch in the afternoon. Find out if the food service manager can help you with that, or if you will need to bring the refreshments and paper goods yourself.
• It's important for you to find out if there are those who have special dietary needs. For example, you may want to bring sugar-free treats for those who are not supposed to have the regular birthday cake.

Some people may be bringing gifts or congratulatory birthday cards. Consider writing thank-you notes in behalf of your parent to all of those people. In addition, it will be very nice for you to write a thank-you note to members of the staff who helped you to have a special event for your parent.