Believe it or not, winter hasn’t officially arrived yet! However, the colder weather and approaching holidays provide a wonderful time for activities to do with grandparents and older adults. Here are some ideas for fun things to do in the comfort (and warmth) of your loved one’s home or perhaps locally in Oak Park and the surrounding areas.
4 Winter Activities for Caregivers and Seniors
1. Work on a Puzzle Together
There are lots of great puzzle options to choose from in stores but consider buying a custom puzzle from Etsy made from a treasured family photo to give to your loved one as a gift (functional and fun!). Puzzles are great for stimulating the minds and hand muscles of seniors.
2. Attend a Holiday Concert
The holiday season is often filled with the sounds of local choirs and instrumental bands playing seasonal classics. If you’re caregiving and able to travel with the elderly adult in your life try taking them to a concert. If you’re in or near the Oak Park River Forest area there is a FREE concert titled “Joy and Wonder” being held Sunday, Dec. 11 (4 PM) at Pilgrim Congregational Church.
3. Make Bird Feeders for the Spring (great to do with kids!)
Just as you may be looking forward to warmer days, the birds are too! Get prepared by crafting a bird-feeder for the Spring. This activity is one that is great to involve kids in! Birds will also happily eat from your feeder in the winter but waiting for the spring prevents you from taking frequent trips outside in the cold.
4. Take in the Beauty of Holiday Lights
Driving around with the older adult you’re caring for provides a way for them to get outside of the house and view the beauty of holiday lights without the concern of long walking distances and frigid evening air. The Park District of Forest Park is hosting a Holiday Home Makeover contest! Winners will be announced on their social media Dec. 23rd and a map with all of the participating homes will be made available.
Reach Out for More Ideas
Need more activity ideas to do with seniors this winter season or do you have ones you’d like to share? Give us a call! We love talking with people about ways to spend quality time with their elderly loved ones, especially if you choose to do so in the comfort of their homes.
