Soon it will be that time of year to show the lady you consider as “Mom” how special she is to you. Many people do this by giving her flowers, gifts or taking her out for a meal.

No matter what Mom gets, eventually food gets involved. My mother used to tell us that the best meals for her were those that she didn’t have to cook. I doubt that has changed in this millennium.

Food is a sign of love the world over.

With heart disease and the rise of diabetes, as well as people living longer, more mothers need to follow special diets or are living in facilities, which can make the Mother’s Day special meal selection more of a challenge. If Mom needs to follow a special diet, ask her where she wants to go.

Getting Mom what we want stopped working in grade school or should have. If she wants ideas, then think about what she needs to avoid and go somewhere else.

Diabetics do not need to stop at a Baskin-Robbins for a double scoop in a waffle cone. Those with heart, kidney or liver issues should stay away from any place that can’t limit the salt they put on the food, such as pizza parlors, barbeque specialists (ask about the grilled meats, anything with sauce will be high sodium) or that place that has the largest hot dogs in the area.

What if Mom is on a special diet, but wants something common sense says isn’t good for her?

An example might be that piece of cake at a restaurant for the diabetic Mom.

First, let her bring it up. If she doesn’t remember that she wants it, you’re off the hook. She might have made allowances in her diet to allow for something special, such as cut down on other salt uses to get that annual piece of pizza.

Again, let her choose. Sometimes the diabetic Mom might still want that piece of twelve layer chocolate cake.

If she can still make good decisions in other ways, let her have it. It is her special day and there are ways to silently convey to the wait staff that you want a small piece. Regardless, you have a whole year to nudge her into compliance.

What if Mom lives in a skilled nursing facility?

We want our residents to be happy and to enjoy a special meal with loved ones. As in previous examples, if she doesn’t bring it up, think of what is best for her.

Many “residential” Moms eat best away from the facility, which is great. If you bring in food for Mom, whether nursing asks you or not, please tell them what you are bringing in.

This is for her safety, not just being nosy. No facility can match the secret ingredient that comes from lovingly prepared home cooked dishes.

Above all, remember that while food shows love, it is your presence on that day which is the real gift.