We love this season with pumpkins, apples, cooler weather, and gorgeous leaves. The fact that things are a little closer to “normal” this year only adds to our enthusiasm. We could never list all the activities we love about this time of year, but we definitely have favorites. From hayrides to Halloween costumes, you can always find something to do. But what about your senior loved one? Let’s explore some fall fun geared just for them, making them feel active and involved. In fact, if you find yourself hanging out with both your children and your parents, many of these activities lend themselves well for both!
Leaf Peeping
Regardless of your senior loved one’s activity level, they can almost always look at the beautiful fall foliage. In fact, they don’t even have to get out of the car! If you do decide to walk around a little bit, choose a favorite leaf to bring home and press in a book for preservation. Here in Virginia, Skyline Drive offers a lovely place to take in the scenery and enjoy the leaves in a mountain setting.
Don’t forget that the National Park Service has a lifetime pass for seniors, perfect for fall. You and those accompanying you (usually in one car) can use the pass for entry to any national park. Once you buy, it never expires!
Fun Fall Crafts
What do pumpkins, leaves, ghosts, turkeys, trees and the like have in common? They all make excellent craft subjects! You can carve or paint a pumpkin together or make one out of paper. The internet offers hosts of fall crafts for young and old alike. Even those of us whose hands aren’t quite as nimble can make something. Whether you create them as decorations, table settings, gifts, or just for fun, you’ll enjoy the process even more than the finished product.
Baking
October and November really kick off the baking season. Try creating creepy cookies and cupcakes or get started on pies and cakes. Since many families have favorite traditions and recipes, involve multiple generations by having your older loved ones teach techniques and secret ingredients to younger members of the family.
Halloween Fun
We would be remiss if we failed to mention Halloween as part of the fall fun. Your older loved ones adore seeing the kids in their costumes, so be sure to get all decked out and visit them! If they live in assisted living or a care facility, the other residents will love it too. Living too far away to visit in person shouldn’t discourage you; make sure you send pictures or do a video call so everyone shares the scariest and cutest costumes.
Now that more churches, neighborhoods, and other organizations hold Trunk or Treat events, your senior loved one has another way to be involved. Even those in wheelchairs can sit and give out candy while admiring the trunks and costumes. If your senior visits or lives with you, put them in charge of passing out candy to trick-or-treaters! Weather permitting, a chair on the porch and a bowl of candy is all you’ll need.
Most seniors just want to feel involved, and fall offers the perfect opportunity to make this happen. What are your favorite ways to help your senior take advantage of all the fall fun? Weigh in over on our Facebook page!