With St. Patrick’s Day rapidly approaching, it’s time to start thinking about how you and your aging loved one might celebrate this vibrant holiday. St. Patrick’s Day gives your loved one a chance to socialize, eat some amazing dishes, and participate in a few exciting games. Here’s a quick look at six St. Patrick’s Day activities that are perfect for older adults.
1. Head to a Parade
Most major cities have some type of St. Patrick’s Day parade, and those events are an excellent place to socialize and get some much-needed sunshine. Before you head to the parade, make sure there will be ample seating for seniors. Parades can be raucous, and you don’t want to have to leave because your loved one is getting jostled around.
Although some elderly people have mobility challenges that limit their ability to venture out on their own, they can still get out of the house and socialize with the help of a professional caregiver. Edmonton elder care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.
Make a St. Patrick’s Day Feast
Even though preparing a feast from scratch is time-consuming, this process can be very gratifying. In addition to socializing over the meal itself, your loved one will also get a chance to work on challenging recipes. By cooking your own meal, you can make sure dishes are as healthy as possible. If your loved one would like a traditional meal, you might want to try corned beef and cabbage with a side of potatoes or carrots.
For seniors with health limitations that make cooking a challenge, creating holiday-themed cards or decorations with a computer program can be enjoyable. Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving live-in care. Edmonton, AB, Home Care Assistance are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s.
3. Create DIY Ornaments and Decorations
Doing creative activities can boost mood, lower stress levels, increase dexterity, and challenge various parts of the brain. Most themed crafts only require a few basic supplies, and there’s no limit to what can be made. Your loved one might enjoy making holiday cards for family and friends as well.
4. Bake Green Desserts and Snacks
When it comes to St. Patrick’s Day, you can never have too much green. Instead of purchasing unhealthy green treats at the store, you and your loved one should try to make your own. Most dishes and treats can easily be turned green with a few drops of food coloring, which won’t change the taste or texture of the dishes.
5. Host a Themed Game Night
Playing games is a great way for seniors to challenge their cognitive abilities and socialize with peers. Inviting a few friends and family members over for a game night is an inexpensive way to pass the time while doing something enjoyable. Games like bingo and Monopoly can easily be spruced up with some St. Patrick’s Day stickers and playing pieces.
6. Set Up a Scavenger Hunt
Seniors should try to remain as physically active as possible, but traditional exercises can sometimes be overwhelming. Setting up a themed scavenger hunt gives your loved one a chance to burn some calories and stretch his or her legs while looking for clues. The final piece of the puzzle might be a simple piece of paper in the shape of a leprechaun or pot of gold your loved one can exchange for some sugar-free candy or another small prize.
Engaging in fun activities all year long helps seniors boost their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, but some may need a bit of assistance to remain active. Living alone at home in the golden years can present a few unique challenges. Trust Edmonton home care service professionals to help your senior loved one maintain a higher quality of life while he or she manages an illness and performs the daily tasks of living. Home Care Assistance will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. If you need professional at-home care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (780) 490-7337.