Celebrating Love & Life This Valentine's Day with Older Adults!
Valentine's Day is the perfect time to spread love, joy, and appreciation to all the special people in our lives. We’re talking holiday sparkle and magic! And, of course, there are so many different things to do on Valentine’s Day to celebrate with the older adults in your life! With some creative thinking and a little effort, you can make this Valentine's Day a celebration to remember! Here are a few idea starters…
Things to Do on Valentine’s Day: Make Something Sentimental
Kick off the celebration with some hand-made love! Writing and decorating Valentine's Day cards is a simple yet powerful way to express your love and gratitude. Get creative and make the cards unique and personal. You can use special papers, stickers, and other decorations to create one-of-a-kind masterpieces. Encourage the older adult to write a message or sign their name, and you'll have a keepsake to cherish for years to come.
Things to Do on Valentine’s Day: Give a Gift!
Gift-giving is a big part of Valentine's Day, and there's no reason why it shouldn't be fun and exciting for older adults too! Consider buying practical gifts that will make their life a little bit more comfortable. Cozy slippers or adaptive clothing that make dressing easier are wonderful ways to show your love and appreciation. You can also think outside the box and purchase practical products that make daily living easier, like a remote with big buttons or a not-so-heavy coffee mug. These gifts not only bring joy, but also improve the recipient’s quality of life!
Fun Activities!
Make this Valentine's Day a day to remember with special activities that bring you together. There are so many different things to do on Valentine's Day with the older adults in your life. A special meal, movie, or game night are all great ways to spend quality time together. If the weather allows, take a walk or have a picnic in the park! Whatever you choose, make sure it's a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Safety is always a priority when celebrating with older adults, especially when mobility and health are a concern. Keep tripping hazards and other safety risks in mind when planning your activities. Consider enlisting the help of a caregiver or other family member to provide assistance as needed.
Spend Quality Time Together!
Many of the above suggestions will lead you to spending some good, quality time with the older adult in your life on Valentine's Day. At the end of the day, this is what matters the most. So if you don’t have a gift to give for whatever reason, your presence is surely enough!
But make the day special – ask your loved one to share stories about their first love or their spouse. It’s great to hear about their lives when they were younger, and we bet they’ll appreciate reminiscing and sharing. If storytelling is not their thing, maybe just put on a special movie (think romantic comedy for Valentine’s Day) and simply enjoy each other’s company.
So, get ready to spread the love, enjoy some quality time, and make this Valentine's Day a day to cherish!
