Thanksgiving is all about gathering with family and friends, sharing delicious meals, and reflecting on gratitude. But as we prepare for this holiday season, it’s also the perfect time to streamline and rightsize your kitchen space. If you’re helping a senior or looking to simplify your own home, here’s how you can ensure your kitchen is ready for the festivities—without the extra clutter.

Tip: Rightsize the Kitchen
– Thanksgiving presents a great opportunity to assess your kitchen gadgets and tools. We often accumulate a collection of duplicate items, rarely-used appliances, or oversized cookware over the years. Ask yourself: do I really need three pie cutters or that waffle iron I’ve used once in the last five years?

When rightsizing, focus on keeping only the essential items that are needed for preparing holiday meals. Let go of kitchenware that hasn’t seen the light of day in ages. If it’s not something you plan to use for Thanksgiving or any future family gatherings, it’s time to part ways. You’ll be surprised how much space and clarity this simple task can bring, making your kitchen easier to navigate during busy cooking times.

To-Do: Clear Out the Pantry
– The pantry is one area that tends to accumulate expired or forgotten food items. Thanksgiving is an ideal time to take stock of your pantry. Begin by checking expiration dates and removing any products that are past their prime.

Encourage seniors to consider donating unopened, non-perishable foods that won’t be used, especially if they’re downsizing or cutting back on big meal preparations. Many food banks see an increase in demand around the holidays, so this can be a great way to give back to the community while also clearing space for the season’s fresh ingredients.

Other: Downsize Tableware
– Over time, families often accumulate large sets of tableware to accommodate gatherings, but as life changes and smaller celebrations become more common, that excess may no longer be necessary. Take this time to assess your holiday tableware. If you or a senior family member no longer host big dinners, consider reducing the amount of plates, glassware, and serving dishes stored away.

Unused tableware can be donated to local charities, sold, or passed along to family members who might be in need of these items. By rightsizing the dining space, you’ll have an easier time setting the perfect table for more intimate, meaningful gatherings—and much more space in your cabinets.

A Holiday to Remember:
– Thanksgiving is about enjoying the present and being grateful for what we have—not stressing over cluttered kitchens and packed pantries. Rightsizing the kitchen ahead of time can make the holidays more enjoyable and give you a head start on decluttering for the new year. Whether you’re helping a senior downsize or simplifying your own space, these tips will help you focus on what truly matters—creating lasting memories with loved ones around the table.