Christmas Cookies That Seniors Can Make

If you ask most people what their favorite Christmas treat is, chances are they will name some sort of cookie. Christmas cookies are very popular, and many people give plates of cookies as gifts to neighbors, police officers, postal workers, home care providers and more. Elderly adults who want to participate in Christmas giving traditions can make cookies to share.

However, illness, chronic health issues and more often make it difficult for seniors to spend much time in the kitchen. Conditions like arthritis, stroke, diabetes and heart disease can reduce their strength and stamina, which means they need assistance to create Christmas cookies. The good news is that with the help of family caregivers and home care providers, seniors can choose from some very easy cookie recipes and create attractive and delicious plates

Here are two Christmas cookie recipes that elderly adults can do on their own, with a little help from the home care provider or family caregiver.

Easy Coconut Macaroons

These delicious cookies are as tasty as they are beautiful. The golden coconut color makes these look like baked snowballs.

• 14 oz. sweetened shredded coconut
• 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1/4 tsp salt

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Mix the coconut, milk, and vanilla in a large bowl, then set aside. Beat or whip the egg whites and salt on high speed in a bowl. When the egg mixture makes medium-firm peaks, fold it into the coconut mixture. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then drop a rounded ball of batter using a spoon (approximately 2 tsp). Bake for 25 minutes then check the cookies. When they are just golden brown, remove and let cool. Makes 22 cookies.

Candy Bar Cookies

This rich cookie is the perfect vehicle for any type of thin milk-chocolate candy bar. Alternative toppings include a chocolate kiss, marshmallows, sprinkles or candied almonds.

• 1 C butter, softened
• 1/2 C sugar
• 1/2 C packed brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 C all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1-1/2 C quick-cooking oats
• 1 C sweetened shredded coconut
• 5 milk chocolate candy bars, chilled

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a bowl, cream the butter and sugars until fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla. Combine flour, baking soda and salt, then add to creamed mixture gradually. Mix well, then beat in oats and coconut. Roll into 1-inch balls. Place them 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Press them slightly to flatten. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Break the candy bar into chunks and press a piece into the center of each cookie while they are still warm. Let cool on wire racks.