An estimated 16 million seniors live alone in the United States, according to current estimates. As spouses pass away and social groups shrink, Valentine’s Day can become a more difficult event for seniors to celebrate as the year progresses. Looking for activities to do with a senior loved one this Valentine’s Day? You’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re spending the day with your spouse, parent, or friend, these activities are sure to bring a smile on everyone’s face.
- Make a tasty treat/ meal
Homemade cooking, rather than eating out, has been demonstrated to lower the risk of diabetes and other chronic diseases, mostly because it is generally healthier than eating out. It is highly recommended that you prepare a heart-healthy meal. - Take a stroll around the neighborhood.
Walk around the neighborhood or to a favorite location such as a nature walk or a city center. The benefits of living a more active lifestyle include improved brain and heart health, as well as being a more enjoyable alternative to an expensive night out on the town. - Reminisce and joke with others about your experiences.
Bring out old photographs, videos, or love letters to help you reminisce about the good times you had. By assisting the elderly in your life in sharing memories with younger family members, Valentine’s Day can be a wonderful opportunity to reap the benefits of intergenerational interaction. - You can stay in and watch a movie.
A relaxing night in might be enjoyable if you put your feet up and watch TV. Get comfortable by selecting your favorite movie from a local library or streaming provider, baking a treat, and relaxing. - A puppet show should be put on.
With someone suffering from dementia, puppets can be an excellent tool for communication. A cheerful mood may be created by using puppets to arouse memories, improve communication, and enhance your evening. - Visit a museum to learn more about your subject.
Spend the afternoon looking at art and discussing your favorites with your partner. Visit the gift store and purchase a postcard or print of your favorite item to keep as a memento of the afternoon for future reference. - Attempt to win at a game of cards.
Card games are an excellent way to maintain your brain in good condition. From Go-Fish to Bridge, there’s a game to suit every interest and ability level at the casino. - To communicate with friends or family members, arrange a virtual conference call.
February 14th is a day that should be full with love, connection, and positive emotions. A good time to schedule a Zoom or FaceTime chat with relatives, especially if your loved one hasn’t been physically around many people recently, is right now! Spend the time catching up, laughing, and relating recent events that have occurred in your lives as your loved one assists you with the technical set-up. - Puzzle something out.
Make a puzzle of one of your loved one’s favorite scenes and spend the rest of the day inside with them. - Music should be played at all times.
The lyrics of one’s favorite song are frequently remembered by those who have lost other memories. So put on some oldies but goodies from your loved one’s heyday and hum, sing, or dance along with the music! - Invite some friends over for a tea celebration.
A vintage-themed tea party is a fun and nutritious way to host a memorable Valentine’s Day celebration! Combine your loved one’s favorite tea flavors, make some tea biscuit decorations with them, and listen to music that brings back memories of your loved one. It may be beneficial to create an environment that your loved one is familiar with in order to stimulate tales and emotions, and to facilitate discussion starting. - Preparing dark chocolate covered strawberries is a simple process.
A healthful, simple, and enjoyable activity for seniors is dipping strawberries in dark chocolate. The opportunity to chat about love and participate in lighthearted conversation with your significant other is provided by this activity. To make it even more peaceful and loving, pair it with some tea! - Decorations for Valentine’s Day
Plan activities for elders on Valentine’s Day that emphasize on décor. Display resident artwork throughout your institution to boost resident confidence and create a joyful ambiance.
Stained Glass Windows: This less-risky method of creating stained glass decorations avoids the need of wax paper, yet the results are just as lovely.
Handmade Valentines: Senior Valentine’s Day festivities aren’t complete without exchanging real valentines! Host a party where people can come up with their own ideas.