Valentine’s Day doesn’t just have to be focused on couples. Growing up, we all remember in our early school years exchanging little Valentines Day cards and candy with our peers. It was some fun and uplifting that broke up the monotony of the long winters following the big holidays. Valentines Day is a holiday that everyone should celebrate. It is also a great time of year to show love and appreciation to family and friends. More often than not our seniors get left out of the celebrations and the holiday is, in fact a great time to spend some quality time with them.
With that said, we wanted to pull together a few fun ideas for Valentines Day that you can do with an senior parent or loved one to help them feel included, special and loved.
Puzzles, Crosswords & Models
Puzzles, Crosswords & Models are a great way to keep aging loved ones involved and mentally sharp. Most importantly they are fun and generate great conversations and problem-solving skills. Models take things a big farther in that the are an activity that can be picked back up during another visit. They truly offer another great reason to come back for multiple visits.
Paper Hearts
For those that are currently living in an assisted living community, pops of color or reasons to decorate can really go a long way for resident moral. Grab some colored paper and spend time together you’re your loved one cutting out hearts and hanging them around their residence. Using scissors for older adults can help with fine motor skills as well as eye-hand coordination.
Chain Garland
In addition to paper hearts, cutting and creating chain garland can be fun too! Cut Valentine’s Day colored paper into equal size strips. Interlock them by stapling the ends together and then hang them around community. This is something that can also be interlocked with other residents. Sometimes it’s nice to write a little something nice on the chain before stapling them together.
Classic Card Exchange
Ask people to bring little Valentine’s cards and do a festive exchange. It doesn’t have to be expensive or store bought. Similar to the hearts, you could always make them out of construction paper.
Stuffed Animals
Consider getting your elderly loved one a stuffed animal and some candy. These can make fantastic gifts, especially for those suffering with dementia or memory loss. They provide comfort and a cuddle buddy.
Be There
Most importantly your time and presence can add much happiness to a day that might have otherwise been lonely or depressing
There are so many ways to bring happiness to hearts of seniors on Valentine’s Day. It doesn’t have to be complicated. It just has to show that you are there for them and that you care.
Happy Valentines Day!!!!
At Legacy Assisted Living we know that change can be difficult. Our experienced team can help put both of your minds at ease and see the positives in the situation. For more information about our services please do not hesitate to contact us directly at (262) 696-8252.
