Going to see the folks at holiday time conjures very specific expectations: epic feasts, football overkill, reconnecting with relatives, and re-tellings of family yarns. It wouldn’t be Thanksgiving or Christmas without these rituals.

If parents are in their mid-60s or older, it also may be time to add one more item to the holiday to-do list: taking stock of mom and dad’s health needs and ability to care for themselves.

Because this step concedes age’s slow erosion of independence, it may not be easy for other family members. But, with mutual recognition that is grounded in love and concern, it can be seen as a way to support and extend self-sufficient living.

Following are some ways to make the holiday inventory as thorough and effective as possible.

• Give parents the option of making the process as open or discreet as they like. If they opt for privacy, involve only the family members of their choice. If they prefer openness, the “checkup” can be a fullfamily project.

• Scour the house and grounds for accident risks. Consider not only current hazards (slick shower floors, poorly grounded electrical outlets, loose porch railings, dead branches on trees) but also ones that could become more dangerous as mobility, coordination and vision decline.

These future hazards could include sidewalks or patios with un- even surfaces, rugs without slip-resistant backing, hard-to-navigate furniture arrangements, electrical or phone cords that could get underfoot, poorly lit attics or storage areas, shelves that can’t be reached without a stepstool, and gas heaters or appliances that are hard to shut off.

• Look closely for potential fire hazards and be sure fire safety equipment is fully operational. Working smoke alarms should be in every major room, and batteries should be checked for freshness. Better still, are wired-in alarms that don’t require batteries.

Does the fireplace have an attached screen? Is there an easy-toaccess fire extinguisher on every floor? Are windows easy to open in case exit doors are inaccessible? Are windows blocked by shrubs that could prevent their use as exits?

Electrical fires are common. Has the home’s wiring been checked recently for damaged insulation and short circuits? Are any outlets or extension plugs loaded beyond the manufacturer’s recommendations? Are electrical cords run under rugs where they could be abraded by foot traffic or punctured by carpet tacks?

• It’s typical for people to become more forgetful with age. One common result is seniors leaving range burners on after use. If this happens repeatedly, consider arranging for meals to be delivered and asking your parents to heat foods with a microwave or toaster oven only.

In most areas of Texas, seniors who can no longer prepare their own meals can get low-cost homedelivered meals through the local area agency on aging. Phone (800) 252-9240 for information.

• Some safety and accessibility improvements -- such as wider doorways, bathroom grab bars and wheelchair or walker ramps -- require time and professional carpentry skill to properly install. Get started on these projects as early as one’s budget permits and parents will give their consent.

• If possible, involved neighbors and family friends in a safety support network. Give them your contact information and ask that they be alert for any signs that your parents’ physical or mental health are creating unsafe conditions. A friendly heads-up call could be a life saver.

Getting this process started often takes sensitivity and a bit of advance planning. But once it’s in place, most families find it both unobtrusive and another way to reinforce the traditional holiday feelings of caring and togetherness.