Ideas for fun activities with seniors
Make time to reminisce
Remembering past times, looking through photo albums, sharing growing up stories, or asking questions about an elderly’s past take only time and interest. When energy or mobility is an issue, an elderly person is limited in activities. Dedicating time to listening to each other, rather than listening to the TV, can lead to meaningful moments. Everyone just might discover something about an elderly relative’s life that they never knew.
Let the games begin
Even in a big crowd, playing games is fun. Consider setting up a table with a large puzzle that the family can randomly work on or pulling out the checkerboard. Ask the elderly before Thanksgiving if they have a favorite card game or pasttime so you’ll be set ahead of time.
Cook or bake together!
Being in the kitchen together is the essence of any holiday spirit. Although an elderly person or senior may not have the energy to cook an entire meal, he or she may easily handle an isolated task. Rolling out dough, using cookie cutters, peeling hard boiled eggs, or drying dishes can all be done from a kitchen stool. Think about how to include them while the kitchen is busy and full of bustling life.
Get outside
Fall is perfect for taking a drive, browsing a pumpkin patch or visiting a local farm. Even having coffee or dessert around an outdoor fireplace or firepit is a simple, yet enjoyable experience for everyone, no matter the age.
Catch up with friends
Is there an old friend or someone coming to town your elderly relative hasn’t seen in a while? Thanksgiving is usually an opportune time to catch those friends or family who rarely come to town or travel. Ask early if there’s anyone your elderly relative would like to see, then follow up to find out if it’s possible to arrange a visit over the Thanksgiving weekend.
Make holiday decorations
While December holidays aren’t quite here yet, getting ready can never happen too soon. Use Thanksgiving time to design cards or make garlands or simple wreaths. Hold a contest. Who can make the best holiday tree ornament? Let the seniors or elderly be the final judge. This activity is an ideal time to include the grandkids, creating even more lasting memories for each generation.
Thanksgiving can be much more than roasting a turkey. It’s time to give thanks and be grateful for the small and big, especially for seniors who make holidays more meaningful.
Content contained on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your health care provider before beginning any new fitness or dietary plan. References provided are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources. Should you have any health-related questions, you should contact your health care provider.
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