May is here, and that means Older Americans Month has arrived. Originally established during the Kennedy Presidency (as “Senior Citizens Month”), Older Americans Month is all about celebrating aging and the contributions which older Americans make. Whether you are providing home care for a senior citizen, or merely want to spend some extra quality time with older relatives in your family, Older Americans Month provides a great opportunity.
Plenty of options are available for you to have a great time with older family members this month. Here are just a few ideas from our Neighborly Home Care team you should consider.
Five Ways to Enjoy Older Americans Month with Your Family
1 – Help plant a garden
Gardening is a wonderful pastime for older Americans. Gardens provide a way for seniors to be out in the sunshine and get some light exercise, while giving them something they can care for. You might even think about working with local groups to establish a communal garden or small farm for seniors in your area.
2 – Talk to seniors about the past
In a world which moves so quickly, people often forget what a wonderful resource our older generation can be. Seniors have lived through decade after decade of change and will have genuine insight into how to keep up with a fast-moving world. Plus, they will undoubtedly enjoy sharing their stories!
3 – Enjoy the arts together
Museums and other artistic repositories are a great opportunity for young and old to come together. In the event you are here in the Philadelphia area, our own Philadelphia Corporation for Aging sponsors a yearly art fair called “Celebrate Arts & Aging,” with contributions from local seniors. The fair is a wonderful opportunity to see what seniors can contribute to the arts!
4 – Host a game day
Whether you are talking about board games or video games, games, in general, can be serious business for seniors. Research has shown that games are effective at stimulating the entire mind and can help seniors improve both their mental facilities and their bodily coordination. Plus, games are a great way for seniors to bond with others.
5 – Volunteer at Nearby Senior Facilities
Remember: Some senior citizens have fewer family members that are local. When you have extra time to spare, consider volunteering to spend a day at a local nursing home or similar facility for older Americans. Doing so can be a great opportunity to share some love with those who may really need a little extra attention.
Get Senior Care and Much More
Want more suggestions for enjoying Older Americans Month or for supporting a senior family member? Please contact Neighborly Home Care today for senior care services and information.