Halloween Activities for Seniors
As the autumn season continues, Halloween brings the perfect opportunity to make special memories with your loved ones. When it comes to choosing ways to celebrate the spooky day, the list of creative ideas is endless. Our Carespring nursing homes and skilled rehabilitation facilities in Cincinnati, Dayton, and Northern Kentucky love looking for ways to bring patients and families together in every way possible. This season, consider some of these festive Halloween activities for seniors to spark the spirit of creativity.
Paint a Pumpkin
Carving pumpkins is a fun Halloween tradition for many families. However, this can be difficult for seniors because dexterity and strength usually start to deteriorate as we age. Consider adapting this favorite Halloween activity to fit the needs of your senior. Painting pumpkins instead of carving them is a great way to participate in Halloween celebrations without causing any injuries or pain.
Visiting pumpkin patches and helping choose the prized pumpkin before painting or carving is a great way for seniors to feel included in celebrations. Make sure to call before visiting to make sure all areas are handicap accessible, if necessary.
Make Decorations
Nothing says Halloween quite like spooky decorations. Try making a craft with your senior to make their room or apartment scream Halloween! Creating spider webs from cotton balls or making these Halloween-themed candle holders will be the perfect touch to your senior’s home.
Spend a day or two making Halloween cards from stencils and markers to send to family and friends. Card making is a great way to keep creativity and personal connection a part of Halloween celebrations. Consider making a list of family and friends and send them a homemade card along with a Halloween treat.
Cook Halloween-Themed Food
Choose a Halloween inspired recipe to cook with your senior the week of Halloween. Making “ghost” cookies or decorating spooky cupcakes for friends and family is a perfect way to feel festive. Make sure to read the recipe beforehand to know which ones will be suitable to your loved one’s capabilities. Allowing your senior to be a part of the process, from choosing the recipe to baking it, will keep them feeling purposeful and happy. Try one of these spooky recipes!
At Carespring, we love celebrating holidays with our residents, especially Halloween. How are you choosing to celebrate this spooky holiday with your senior?
