Fall and winter holidays are special times to spend with our loved ones – especially grandparents or elderly friends and relatives that we don’t often get to see. It is another opportunity to strengthen those bonds and make more memories together.
With the rush of everyday life, it’s hard to find the time to just sit and talk and truly enjoy visiting with someone. That’s why these gatherings are so important in our lives as we strive to make the most of the time we spend together.
There are many ways you can make your senior loved ones, including those who may not be able to provide the homemade delights we remember, feel more involved. It’s important to show that you appreciate the time you spend with them.
Create a Tree of Gratitude
We all know the importance of feeling grateful. Gratitude can enhance positive emotions in people. It can increase the feeling of empathy, along with boosting self-esteem. Gratitude is downright good for the mind, body, and soul. It is long-lasting. All these benefits of gratitude make us happy in the moment, and even after the event is over.
At your Thanksgiving celebration, a “Tree of Gratitude” is an activity in which everyone can participate. To start your tree, place a large branch in a vase (or make several!). Make a leaf template and use this to cut leaves from construction paper, or any other colorful paper. Pass the leaves out to your loved ones and have them write something that they’re grateful for on the leaf. It can be big or small – whatever you’re feeling in that moment. Place a ribbon or string through each leaf and hang it on the tree. You can have each person read their message aloud as they hang the leaf on a branch. This can serve as the centerpiece for your Thanksgiving Day dinner. You can even send the tree, or trees, home with your senior loved ones as a happy reminder of the day.
Have your loved one help decorate
If your loved one is no longer able to host or bake, get them involved with other preparations, such as choosing the color theme and decorations for the day. Whether it’s a candle, wreath, or Tree of Gratitude as the centerpiece, have your loved one help decorate and set the rest of the table. It may seem like a small thing, but this strengthens your connections and gives your loved one a sense of being helpful and involved in the day. If you’re in need of assistance or ideas, home care Monmouth services can provide the support your loved one needs to stay engaged during these special moments.
Share family stories and photos
Researching Genealogy has become a popular activity. Learning and making discoveries about your family’s background can be a fun activity. Do a little advanced planning and tell your guests to bring an old photo or document to share with everyone. Your senior relatives can be a treasure trove of information when it comes to passing down information and stories about your ancestors.
Decorate pumpkins or other decorations together
Carving isn’t necessary, instead set out art supplies and paper so children and adults alike can use their imagination and create a holiday pumpkin. Seniors will enjoy working with children on this activity as well. Afterward, hold a contest and award small prizes for the most creative, silliest, most colorful, etc. Another great craft all generations can do is creating wreaths or ornaments. Empty wreaths can be pre-purchased at the store and then inexpensive additions such as flower picks, ornaments, ribbon and tinsel can be added to create unique decorations to be cherished.
Host a virtual gathering
Sometimes, for various reasons, it’s not possible for everyone to be together in person for Thanksgiving. Many seniors these days are tech savvy, and if that’s the case for those you know, host a gathering via an online video platform. This is great not only for holidays, but for any day of the year when you want to connect. Seeing a smiling and familiar face while talking will surely brighten the day of your loved ones.
Just be together
Nothing compares to just being together. Sharing old memories in itself helps create new ones as you laugh, and sometimes cry, together. Don’t rush holidays. Relax around the dinner table once the meal is cleared. Cherish every moment together.
This is a start to the myriad of activities you can plan for your holiday celebrations. Everyone can participate, have a fun time, and most importantly create new holiday memories together.
