How do I get my parents home for the holidays?

Yes, it's lovely to dream : ) Now, into reality. It's quite likely that your mom would feel confused and agitated by changes in environment, to say nothing of you trying to handle the physical challenges. You are obviously a kind, loving person. You'll do fine with taking the holiday to them. I had to make that choice - it went on for years. Holidays at home for my kids, plus holidays at the nursing home. It was not perfect, but it was okay.
Take care of yourself, too.
Carol

Ah, sumlerc, what a nice dream. And I do so wish you could pull it off. But I think it is too late.

I am not speaking from direct experience but I know that even my dream of having a holiday event with all my sisters and brothers and their families. like we used to do, is unrealistic. Families grow; none of our homes would hold us all. Some have moved away. New family members mean new in-laws and schedule conflicts. I have my memories of earlier times, and am learning to cherish new holiday experiences.

Your situation just doesn't sound like a Norman Rockwell moment, you know? Mom's anxiety would probably be high, Dad would be unhappy about needing family help with eating and toileting -- it is bad enough when professionals to it, and you, tired from all the preparations, would be facing difficult caregiving.

Could you bring a little of your traditional TG meal to the NH? The gravy boat you broke when you were 8, Dad mended with super glue, and you've been using ever since? A special centerpiece? Placemats that Aunt Lucy gave you the year she visited? Or do you have a special recipe? Let the NH prepare the meal, but bring the cranberry rhubard sauce you have every year or your own special pumpkin pie.

Are there any other holiday traditions you could modify and re-enact? Or new traditions that would fit the new circumstances? Could you take each parent out, briefly and separately, to shop for a gift for the other one?

I don't know. It is heartbreaking, but your purpose it to create a memory for yourself and pleasure for your parents, and it just doesn't sound like Thanksgiving at your home is going to do that.

Maybe others have done this and will give you tips on how to make it work.

I must admit, after reading my own post...It just does not sound like a good time to be had by all. Oh well, no regrets! I have many fond memories of holidays and regular days with my parents. It's time to move on and I can accept that. Plus, I want the last memories to be good memories. I'm fully awake now. Thanks Jeannegibbs.

I appreciate the question and all of the right on the target answers. I have been considering the same as well, and reading the above was a tremendous help--having a special meal at the familiary NH, and bringing something from the past--is a great idea. Thank you!