No matter how you choose to spend the day, enjoying Valentine’s Day with your loved one is sure to strengthen the bond you share. Tear open your box of Sweethearts and use some of these ideas to send the message that you care this Valentine’s Day.
- Cook and share a sweet treat. Studies have shown that homemade cooking is likely to reduce the risk of diabetes and other chronic diseases because it tends to be healthier than restaurants.
- Go for a walk. Pick your favorite spot — perhaps a nature trail or a hub in the city — and go for a stroll.
- Share memories and laughter. Reminisce about memories by bringing out old photographs, videos, or love letters. Valentine’s Day is a great excuse to enjoy the benefits of intergenerational connection by helping the senior in your life share memories with younger family members.
- Have a movie night in. It can be fun to kick up your feet and have a restful night in. Pick out your favorite movie from a local library or online streaming service, make your dessert, and get cozy!
- Perform a puppet show. Puppets can be a great way to engage with someone with dementia.
- Go to a museum. Spend the afternoon enjoying art together and picking out your favorite pieces.
- Play a card game. Card games are a great way to keep your brain healthy.
- Set up a virtual call with friends or family. Valentine’s Day is a day that should be filled with love, connection, and happy feelings.
- Make a puzzle. End the day inside with your loved one and put together a puzzle of one of their favorite scenes.
- Listen to music. People who have lost other memories can often still remember the lyrics to their favorite song.
- Have a tea party. A healthy way to throw a memorable Valentine’s Day party is by having a vintage-themed tea party. Brew up some of your loved one’s favorite teas, decorate some tea biscuits together, and play some music that would spark your loved one’s memories.
- Make dark chocolate-covered strawberries. Dipping strawberries in dark chocolate is a healthy, easy, and engaging craft for seniors.
- Make Valentine’s cards. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to share happy emotions and feelings with others. While some seniors may be lonely at this time of the year, connecting with their caregivers, neighbors, or their family by making Valentine’s Day cards is a great way to bring joy and positive feelings.
- Put together a Valentine’s rose bouquet. Everyone loves roses, especially on Valentine’s Day.
- Decorate a picture frame. Valentine’s Day is a great day to remember who you love and think about them. For seniors, reflecting on their family or their loved ones by making a picture frame can be an uplifting and heartfelt craft.
- Write a heartfelt letter or poem. Who doesn’t love connecting with people who are important, especially on a day filled with love? Write a letter to someone special, or a poem to another senior with your loved one.
Wondering how to support a loved one’s goal of being able to age at home? We’re here to help. Whether it’s for one month or ten years, our caregivers can help your loved one live the life they want at home. Call Home Care Mesa Advisor today at (480) 699-4899 or click on the website homecareassistancemesa.com to schedule a free assessment and learn more about how we can support your needs. Learn more about our caregiving services for the elders.