Seniors enjoy being included in the holiday festivities, so we compiled some fun ways to make your senior loved one feel included this holiday. Our list of festive activities for seniors offers tips for those who are visiting family, as well as those seniors who are staying home for the holidays.
Festive Activities for Seniors
The holidays can be fun for seniors even if they have physical or cognitive limitations. Spending time together is most important, but so is feeling included, and enjoying good company – whether in person or virtually.
The festive activities you do together don’t have to be exciting to be special and meaningful. Simply being able to join in brings joy and helps your senior enjoy the season.
Festive Activities for Seniors Staying Home
Decorate and fill stockings for your nearest and dearest.
Prompt kids to ask about “the good ol’ days” so they can learn about their grandparent’s youth (this is a great conversation starter for phone or video calls too).
Put up festive decorations around the house – just be sure to keep walkways and floors clear of decorations which can become a tripping hazard.
Play card or board games.
Help your senior to create a playlist of some of their favorite songs.
Do some festive baking. Cookie decorating is a great way to capture that festive feeling.
Cook your senior’s favorite holiday dish or meal. There’s no better way to get that fuzzy feeling all over than with a popular family recipe that evokes feelings of nostalgia and love.
Organize an informal gift-wrapping party with your senior. It’s not so much about the wrapping, but merely doing something together to get the excitement going.
Help your senior to write personal holiday cards to those who matter most.
Ask their input when shopping for gifts for the family.
Festive Activities for Seniors Going Out
Take a stroll around the local mall, shopping center, or any public spaces that have festive lights or decorations. Simply admiring the festivities can brighten up anyone’s mood.
Take a family walk, pets, kids, and adults in tow! A relaxing stroll with fresh air truly does wonders.
Enjoy a delicious meal at your senior’s favorite restaurant. Good food and good company are really all you need.
Watch a holiday movie or book for a popular show. Think about local comedians, local theatre productions, or performers coming to your area.
Moderation Is Key
Remember that celebrating the festive season can become overwhelming for your senior. Be mindful to maintain a slower pace so you don’t over-exert your senior. All of the activities a
listed above can be toned down to allow for a more relaxed atmosphere. After all, it’s spending quality time with your senior that really matters.
