Creating meaningful and enjoyable experiences with your senior parents in assisted living can be incredibly rewarding. These moments not only bring joy but also help strengthen family bonds.
However, coming up with activities to do can be challenging. Try engaging with things your loved one enjoys doing, but you can also try thinking outside the box with gardening, virtual tours, or organizing a charity drive.
Activities for Cozy Days at Home
Creative Arts
Engaging in creative arts can be incredibly fulfilling for older parents. It allows for self-expression and can be a source of joy and relaxation.
- Painting: Provide your parent with a set of watercolors or acrylics and some canvases. Encourage them to paint whatever inspires them.
- Knitting and crocheting: These activities can result in handmade items like scarves, blankets, or hats. The repetitive motions of knitting and crocheting can also be calming.
- Writing: Journaling daily thoughts, writing letters to loved ones, or even composing poetry helps keep the mind active and the emotions balanced.
Music
Music is a powerful tool that can evoke memories and lift spirits. It’s no surprise that music therapy is popular in assisted living communities. Music uniquely connects people to their past, whether it’s jazz, classical, or rock ‘n’ roll.
Consider organizing a sing-along session. Singing together can be a joyful experience that encourages interaction. If your parent played an instrument, this might be a great time to rekindle that hobby.
Mind Games
Keeping the mind active is crucial for cognitive health. Playing games that require recalling information, such as matching pairs, can help improve memory and cognitive function.
- Puzzles (e.g., jigsaw, crossword, and Sudoku) stimulate the brain and provide a satisfying challenge.
- Reading books together can be an excellent mental exercise. Choose a book and read it aloud to each other. Discuss the plot, characters, and themes, making it a shared intellectual activity.
Culinary Adventures
Food has a way of bringing people together. Sharing culinary experiences can be both enjoyable and nourishing. Food tasting can be equally pleasurable for those who prefer to avoid cooking. Organize a tasting session with different cheeses, chocolates, or fruits. Discuss the flavors and textures, making it a sensory experience.
For those who like to cook, choose simple recipes that your parents enjoy and can help with. Making favorite dishes can spark beautiful conversations and create lasting memories. Baking is another fun option. From cookies to cakes, baking allows for creativity and results in delicious treats to share. The process of measuring, mixing, and decorating can be very engaging.
Technology
Technology can open up new worlds of entertainment and education for senior parents. Consider introducing your parent to video games. Many games designed for seniors are simple to learn, fun to play, and can improve cognitive functions and hand-eye coordination.
Explore virtual tours together. Many museums, national parks, and historical sites offer online tours. It’s a great way to ‘travel’ without leaving the comfort of home. Or teach your parent how to use social media. Platforms like Facebook can help them stay connected with friends and family. They can share updates, photos, and messages, staying engaged with their social circle.
Group Activities
Social interaction is essential for emotional health. Group activities foster a sense of community and belonging among residents.
- Board and card games: Classics like chess, checkers, and bridge can be enjoyed by people of all ages. These games stimulate the mind and encourage friendly competition.
- Bingo: It’s easy to play, and the excitement of winning can be exhilarating. Many facilities organize bingo nights as a regular event, making it a social highlight.
- Art classes: Painting, drawing, and pottery offer creative outlets and a chance to develop new skills. The supportive environment of a group class can be very encouraging.
Connecting with Family
Maintaining strong family connections is essential for the emotional well-being of senior parents. Scheduled family visits provide something for your parent to look forward to. Try to make these visits regular and consistent. During these times, engage in meaningful conversations and shared activities.
Encourage your parent to share stories from their past by going through old photos and sharing stories and memories. You can record these stories to create a cherished keepsake.
Active Activities for Being Out & About
Physical Activity
Physical activity is crucial for maintaining health and well-being, even in advanced age. Tailoring activities to your parents’ abilities can make exercise fun and safe. A stroll around the facility’s garden or a nearby park can be a refreshing way to enjoy nature and have a conversation.
Don’t forget about dancing. Whether it’s a slow waltz or a more energetic twist, dancing can be a delightful way to get moving. Plus, it combines physical activity with music, doubling the enjoyment. Many assisted living communities offer group classes that include stretching, strength training, and balance exercises adapted for those with mobility issues.
Nature & Outdoors
Spending time outdoors can be incredibly refreshing and beneficial for mental health. Some ideas to get out and enjoy nature include:
- Bird watching: Provide your parent with binoculars and a bird guidebook. Watching and identifying birds can be both relaxing and educational.
- Gardening: If there’s space, plant a small garden together. Even a few potted plants can bring joy and a sense of accomplishment.
- Picnics: Pack a simple meal and find a nice spot in a park or garden. Enjoy the fresh air, good food, and each other’s company.
Volunteering
Giving back to the community can be incredibly fulfilling and provide a sense of purpose. Consider joining a volunteer group. Many organizations welcome the help of seniors, whether knitting blankets for the homeless or participating in community clean-ups.
Spend Quality Time with Loved Ones at Neese Road
Bellevue Village at Neese Road knows how important it is to create value by visiting your loved ones in assisted living. Contact us today to see how we can help enhance your parents’ daily lives.
