Holiday Crafts and Activities for Aging Family Members

The holidays are a time when many families enjoy special activities and just being together. Aging family members can enjoy these things just as much as the younger ones, even if they have physical or cognitive limitations.

Holiday activities don’t have to be exciting or over the top in order to be meaningful. As a matter of fact, where seniors are concerned, it’s frequently better to keep things a little more low key. The important thing is that they are spending time with their loved ones and feeling included in the holiday festivities.

Here are a few senior-friendly holiday activities to make this season together a little more special.

7 Fun Holiday Crafts and Activities for Seniors

1. Make a Wreath

Add a seasonal touch to your front door with a custom wreath. Pinterest is full of easy do-it-yourself wreath ideas, like this one made from pinecones.

2. Create Ornaments

Have some fun and create one-of-a kind keepsakes by making your own ornaments. Click here for a list of ideas.

3. Make and Stuff Stockings

Making your own stockings is a great way to spend some time together. You can find tutorials for a wide variety of styles and skill levels. Once you’re finished, work together to come up with great stocking stuffer gifts to put inside.

4. Take to the Kitchen

Cook or prepare favorite holiday foods together. Your loved one may even have some old family recipes to pass on. Baking and decorating cookies or other yummy treats can be enjoyable even for seniors with cognitive limitations.

5. Sing Holiday Songs

Have a family sing along. If you have musician in the family, they may be able to accompany you. If not, you can find all of the old classics on YouTube (or in your old CD collection).

6. Wrap Gifts Together

Wrapping all those presents can be fun if you do it together! Enlist your loved one’s help wrapping gifts or writing and addressing cards.

7. Enjoy the Sights

If homes in your neighborhood or one nearby are generally lit up with lights and festive decorations, go for a stroll together and take in the sights. Use caution if you live in an area where snow and ice build up on sidewalks. Or, if you prefer to stay out of the elements, you could head to the mall – just make sure to plan your excursion early enough in the day to avoid the heaviest holiday crowds!

Depending on your loved one’s energy level and abilities, many of these activities can be adjusted to fit their needs. As long as you’re spending time together, the whole family can enjoy the season. And you’ll be creating memories that will last a lifetime!

Visit the Davis Community’s Assisted Living and SNF in Wilmington NC

If you or loved one are no longer capable of living a safe, independent lifestyle, then call the Davis Community today at 910.686.7195 or simply complete and submit our online information request form. We provide exceptional assisted living and skilled nursing services in Wilmington, NC with a strong and supportive environment where your loved one will feel welcomed and part of an active community. Get to know the difference today — schedule a visit to the Davis Community!