The holiday season is a special time filled with warmth, joy, and the comforting embrace of family and friends. It’s a time when we gather to celebrate traditions, share laughter, and spend quality time with loved ones. These connections are especially meaningful for our aging loved ones. They bring a sense of joy, belonging, and purpose.
As we plan holiday activities this season, we want to ensure the seniors in our lives are not only staying safe and healthy, but also having fun and feeling the festive spirit.
Here are seven of the best holiday activities for seniors:
1. Create Holiday Crafts and Greeting Cards
Whether it’s making paper snowflakes or handwriting greeting cards, crafting can be both a relaxing and rewarding holiday activity for seniors. Not only does crafting provide a creative outlet, but it also offers seniors a chance to make beautiful, homemade gifts for their loved ones.
2. Build Gingerbread Houses
Building gingerbread houses is a classic holiday activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Seniors can participate in decorating pre-assembled gingerbread houses or, for those who are more adventurous, build them from scratch. This activity can be a great — and tasty — way to bond with family members and create lasting memories.
3. Start a Seasonal Puzzle
Puzzles are a fantastic way to engage the mind and can be especially fun when they have a holiday theme. Consider choosing a puzzle with a beautiful snowscape, festive lights display, or candy canes and snowmen. This activity can be both stimulating and calming, providing an excellent opportunity for seniors to relax and enjoy some quiet time with loved ones.
4. Play a Game of Dreidel or Holiday Bingo
Games like dreidel and bingo can be a hit during the festive season. These games are not only fun and engaging, but can also be easily adapted to suit different mobility levels. They’re perfect for bringing people together and sparking some friendly competition. Consider a holiday-themed bingo card to make it even more fun, and give prizes like chocolate.
5. Sip Some Hot Cocoa or Eggnog
Who doesn’t enjoy a hot beverage on a cold winter day? A hot cocoa or eggnog bar is a cozy and inviting way to spend time with seniors and feel the holiday spirit. Include a variety of toppings options, like marshmallows, whipped cream, and cinnamon.
6. Host a Holiday Movie Night
Nothing says holiday spirit like a good movie night! Hosting a holiday movie marathon with classics like “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “A Christmas Carol,” or “Miracle on 34th Street” can be a delightful way to spend quality time with an aging loved one. Make it extra special with popcorn, blankets, and festive decorations.
7. Create a Festive Flower Arrangement
Flower arranging is a therapeutic activity that allows seniors to engage with nature and create something beautiful. Using seasonal flowers and greenery, seniors can design stunning holiday centerpieces that add a festive touch to their living space. This activity can be both calming and creatively fulfilling.
Embracing the Holiday Spirit
Holiday activities not only bring joy and a sense of accomplishment, but also encourage social connection and creativity. Assisted living facilities often provide a perfect setting for these activities, offering a safe and supportive environment where seniors can enjoy the holidays to the fullest. By participating in these festive activities, our aging loved ones can experience some of their fondest moments with their families and friends.
Want to know what other kinds of holiday activities are offered in assisted living? Contact CareOne today.
