Whether your senior loved one prefers the spooky or the sweet, celebrating Halloween can be fun and exciting. Maybe the person you care for has Halloween traditions they’ve always done, or perhaps you’re looking for ways to create new habits with your family. Luckily, there are multiple good ways to include your senior loved ones and the rest of your family in the October festivities.
Some of these ideas are simply for the fun of it, while others can also promote healthy habits. Get some easy-to-implement tips from the senior care team at Visiting Angels.
Idea 1: Have a Costume Party
Dressing up for Halloween is a classic tradition, and it’s something people of all ages can enjoy. Creating costumes is a great way to spark creativity, and you could also look into events in your area. This could be a good opportunity for your loved one to spend time with people of all ages, including others in their peer group.
Idea 2: Decorate Pumpkins Safely
Pumpkin carving is another of the primary Halloween activities. But, while it might be fun, it’s not always the safest option, given the sharp knives. If you and your loved one feel comfortable carving pumpkins, you can go for it. But, if mobility or health issues make using shapes objects difficult, there are other ways to decorate a pumpkin, such as painting or stenciling.
Idea 3: Host a Movie Night
Regardless of age, some people love a good horror movie, and others do not. So, you’ll want to go with the interests and comfort level of the senior citizen in your life. If they have Halloween-themed movies they watched growing up, a movie night is a great time for them to enjoy an old favorite. Or, you and your family can pick a newer film to start a new tradition.
Idea 4: Participate in Trick or Treating
These days, there are multiple ways to get involved with trick or treating. If you have children in your family, it’s fun for everyone to bring grandparents or other elderly loved ones along. This is an excellent way for family members to bond across generations.
And, if you don’t have children in your family, you could also help your loved one hand out candy from their home or a trick-or-treating event. Just be careful to keep your seniors safe from any illnesses and remain cautious.
Idea 5: Put Up Halloween Decorations
A great way to help the seniors you care about get a little active while celebrating Halloween is to put up decor. While it might not seem like a workout, it can get the entire body moving to unpack boxes or get crafts together. After the decorating is over, the living space looks perfectly festive, which is always rewarding.
Looking for assistance with home care for your loved one? Visiting Angels offers comprehensive, compassionate services from a team of dedicated individuals. We want to help you and your loved one live full, healthy lives. Give us a call today to learn more.