Grandparents are a very special part of our lives. Sometimes, if grandparents are in assisted living it can be difficult to create special memories as we have from childhood. With National Grandparents Day landing on September 8th this year, it’s the perfect opportunity to spend time with a loved one in assisted living and make those memories!
Here are some ideas on how to celebrate the day:
Interview
Interviewing your grandparents is a fun and easy way to celebrate National Grandparents Day. Our grandparents grew up in a different time and they often have very interesting stories that you might not have heard before. This is also a great way to learn more about them and make them feel happy to reminisce. Plus, you might learn some cool family history in the process! Check out these interview question ideas.
Take Them On A Date
When was the last time your grandparent went on a date? Think about their favorite activities; maybe they love to go to the movies, or have a favorite restaurant they never get to go to. Tell them a time and pick them up to go. It can be nice to have an appointment to look forward to going to, especially if they are constantly at doctors’ appointments.
Cook Them Dinner
Sometimes it’s nice just to have a homecooked meal and company. Consider asking them what they would like, or surprise them with a favorite dish. Either way, you can enjoy quality time over some delicious food! If you are having trouble getting your senior loved one to eat because of a decreased appetite, try out these ideas to help. If you are not sure what to make, check out these easy recipes for senior nutrition.
Video Chat
If you don’t live close to your loved one but still want to celebrate, consider a video chat. Make sure to schedule a time and contact someone to help if your grandparent doesn’t know how to do it. Add to the fun by sending them a gift and instructing them not to open it until your call. A puzzle, their favorite treat, or pictures are great ways to make them smile and getting their reaction is priceless!
Make a Scrapbook
A scrapbook is a fun project you can make together, or one you can surprise them with on your visit. Filled with pictures and memories, a scrapbook can make a great talking point, catching them up on everything with the family. It also acts as something sentimental they can keep forever. Consider adding older pics from their younger days and ask them about their past.
Any way you celebrate Grandparents Day is a great way! Most seniors in assisted living just love having the company of their loved ones. There are so many benefits of spending time with our grandparents and this holiday is the perfect opportunity to do so!
At Loretto, we pride ourselves in providing our residents with activities and events all year round. You can learn more about our latest news and events here, or follow us on Facebook! We’re proud to be the leader in comprehensive healthcare services in Central New York, with 19 locations that deliver extraordinary care to nearly 10,000 people of all ages, income levels, and care needs. For more information about our services and facilities, visit us at lorettocny.org.
Sources:
- https://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/2013-3-15-easy-recipes-for-senior-nutrition/
- https://www.umh.org/assisted-independent-living-blog/bid/314136/Celebrating-Grandparents-Day-in-Assisted-Living-Communities
- https://www.asccare.com/importance-visiting-aging-loved-ones/
- https://www.aegisliving.com/resource-center/30-questions-to-ask-your-grandparents/
- https://www.lorettocny.org/news-events/blog/how-encourage-seniors-decreased-appetite-eat