4 Fun Holiday Activities for Seniors
The holidays are a special time for many, especially seniors. From the decorations to the music, indulging in festive activities can be an exciting way to enjoy the holidays. Plus, they give seniors a chance to connect with others and stay socially active.
Here are four activities to celebrate this holiday season with your senior loved one.
1. Share Your Favorite Holiday Memories Together
Whether it’s baking cookies or decorating the tree, most of us have fond childhood memories from the holidays that we still carry with us today. So, take a few moments to share these stories with your senior loved one and ask them about their favorite holiday memories. You may even uncover some new stories you’d never heard before.
Pictures and videos can be great visual aid to help trigger these memories. They may also inspire you to recreate some of your favorite holiday activities together. Sharing memories fosters an atmosphere of togetherness, and it’s sure to bring joy to both you and your senior relative.
2. Watch a Classic Holiday Movie or Play Seasonal Music
There’s nothing quite like watching a classic holiday movie or listening to seasonal music with someone you care about. So, ask what your senior loved one’s favorite holiday movie or song is, and watch it or listen to it. This will not only provide an opportunity for quality bonding but also give your senior relative an opportunity to revisit some of their favorite holiday memories. Music, in particular, helps older adults recall memories and reconnect with their emotions.
Movies and music can also be great conversation starters. Try asking your elderly loved one questions about the movie or song, such as why it’s their favorite or what it reminds them of.
3. Attend a Community Holiday Event
The holiday season brings many fun community events that can give your senior loved one an excellent opportunity to get out and stay socially active. From holiday parades to tree lightings, look for events in your local area that may be enjoyable for both you and your elderly family member.
If you’re able to travel, consider taking a trip together to experience the holidays in a different city. Visiting a place historically significant to your family or exploring an iconic holiday destination can be an incredibly special experience for both of you.
Or take your elderly family member on a visit to see Santa Claus this holiday season. Seeing Santa in person will surely bring joy and excitement as they get the chance to relive childhood memories while making new ones. Seeing Santa Claus is always magical, no matter your age.
4. Make Holiday Crafts
Getting crafty is a fun way to stay socially active and create something unique. Invite your senior over for a holiday crafting session or to make homemade gifts for family members.
Some crafts you can make include:
- Christmas cards
- Handmade ornaments
- Gingerbread houses
- Paper snowflakes
- Wreaths and centerpieces
Crafts are a wonderful way to bring the holiday spirit into your home and keep your senior loved ones busy and imaginative. In addition, you can use your crafts as decor or give them as gifts to brighten someone’s day.
Helping Seniors Enjoy the Holidays
No matter what holiday activities you choose to do with your senior relative, there are a few important things to keep in mind.
Be mindful of your elderly family member’s needs.
Make sure to keep them comfortable, warm, and hydrated. It’s also important to be aware of their limits and not overdo it. If you notice they’re tired or overwhelmed, allow them to take a break. You should also consider any dietary restrictions or mobility issues.
Be flexible with your plans.
Know that things may not always go according to plan. Adjust your activities as needed, and don’t forget to appreciate the little moments together. Demonstrating patience and compassion towards your senior relative will help make the holidays even more enjoyable for both of you.
Encourage them to stay socially active.
Social isolation can be a common issue for seniors during the holidays. If your elderly family member does not have other senior friends, consider connecting them with peers through senior outreach programs, senior centers, or religious organizations.
Keeping your loved ones socially active will alleviate any feelings of loneliness and allow them to engage in conversations and activities they enjoy. Staying social also makes it easier for them to look forward to the holidays and get in the holiday spirit.
Conclusion
The holidays are an especially important time for seniors, so don’t forget them when planning festive activities. By taking part in their lives, you can show your elderly family members that they are truly loved and appreciated. Plus, it’s sure to bring both of you some much-needed joy and laughter.
At Visiting Angels Cincinnati West, our home care providers are dedicated to helping seniors remain socially active, no matter the season. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist your senior relatives this holiday season.