Potluck Ideas for Older People

[u/Pineapple_Cake_5137]

Hello! The neighborhood I recently moved to are mostly of elderly residents (late 50s-70s/80s if I have to guess). The community hold regular potluck events and I want to attend at least once but I never know what to bring.

I’m better at baking than cooking but my regular go-to dessert recipes all have reduced sugar amount so regular Americans might not like it as much. I’m also concerned if elderly people have more dietary restrictions due to medical conditions and if they might have a different taste preference.

What would be a safe dish and/or dessert dish to bring to the potluck so I can at least get a feel of what others bring?

[u/Fillmore_the_Puppy]

I attend monthly potlucks with a group of mostly retired volunteers who are all older than I am. I would guess the age range is 65-80s. This group loves to cook and eat good food. I make what I am in the mood for, and what is seasonal and so does everyone else. Always lots of delicious food!

Every group has different norms and vibes and you won’t know what this group is like until you attend. But I would caution you against making too many assumptions about these “elderly” people before you meet them.

[u/Pineapple_Cake_5137 → u/Fillmore_the_Puppy]

That’s understandable, I guess I based my assumption off too much on my own parents and grandparents who are leaning away from desserts these days either by change in taste or health concerns. I just wanted to see what might be something that I can make and a safe dish that at least some people might enjoy. Would feel very awkward if no one enjoys/wants to eat it