At The Kensington Falls Church, the holiday season is all about creating genuine connections and enjoying the festive spirit together.Were thrilled to invite you to an evening that embodies the holiday spiritour 3rd Annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Celebration for Kensington Families on December 12th from 4 6 pm..Imagine sipping hot cocoa on our patio, live music filling the air, and loved ones faces lighting up as we illuminate our grand tree.Its more than just an eventits a moment to create cherished memories with family members of all ages.So join us for this spirited event, share the excitement, and welcome the holidays together at The Kensington Falls Church!Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.What are the best holiday activities for seniors?Finding holiday activities adapted to your loved ones current health needs and abilities can make all the difference in creating meaningful and joyful experiences.Whether your loved one is dealing with dementia, Parkinsons, or mobility challenges, there are plenty of ways to involve them in the festivities.Heres a list of senior holiday activities that are enjoyable and considerate of various needs.1.
Decorate cookies togetherBaking and decorating cookies is a fun way to spend time together.Set up a comfortable workspace at the kitchen table for seniors with limited mobility.Use pre-baked cookies, easy-to-handle icing bottles, and sprinkles.The focus is on enjoying the process and each others company, not perfection.2.
Create a personalized holiday playlistSit down and compile a playlist of your loved ones favorite holiday songs.Include classics that bring back happy memories.Play music during mealtimes or quiet afternoons.Familiar tunes can be comforting and stimulating for those with dementia.3.
Craft handmade ornamentsMake simple ornaments using foam shapes, ribbons, and stickers.Incorporate old family photos for a personal touch.This activity is easy on the hands and offers a sense of accomplishment.Plus, youll have unique decorations to cherish.4.
Host a cozy movie nightChoose some favorite holiday films and set up a comfy viewing area with plenty of cushions and blankets.Prepare snacks like popcorn or hot cocoa.Its a relaxing way to enjoy each others company without much effort.5.
Organize a family storytelling sessionGather the family and encourage your loved one to share their favorite holiday memories.Use photo albums to prompt stories.This engages them and connects younger family members to their heritage.6.
Arrange a virtual gathering with distant relativesSet up a video call with family members who cant visit in person.Ensure the technology is ready to go smoothly.Seeing familiar faces can brighten your loved ones day and help them feel connected despite the distance.7.Visit local holiday displaysIf mobility allows, take a short drive to see local Falls Church holiday events.Many communities offer drive-through options, perfect for those with difficulty walking.
Bring along some treats to enjoy during the ride.8.Engage in sensory activitiesCreate a sensory box filled with soft fabrics, scented candles (unlit for safety), or tactile objects like stress balls.Gentle hand massages with scented lotions can be soothing, especially for seniors with sensory issues.9.
Set up a small indoor gardenPlant easy-to-maintain herbs or small flowers in pots.This activity gives your loved one something to care for and watch grow, providing a sense of purpose.Place the plants where they can easily access them.10.
Participate in charitable activitiesEngage in acts of kindness together.Assemble care packages, write holiday cards for service members, or knit scarves for charity.Contributing to a local charity can enhance your loved ones self-worth.Adapting activities for seniors with mobility or sensory challengesWhen planning for a loved one with Alzheimers and dementia or neurological conditions like Parkinsons, it helps to think ahead and consider their unique needs to create a comfortable and enjoyable experience.The important thing is to adapt and make sure your loved one feels included and engaged.The following are tips to adjust activities based on specific needs.If your loved one has dementiaKeep things simple and offer gentle guidance.
Instead of giving many instructions at once, break tasks down into easy steps.For example, if youre decorating a tree, they can help hang ornaments or pass you the tinsel.Focus on activities that elicit positive emotions and stir happy memories, such as listening to their favorite holiday songs or looking through old photo albums together.A little patience and a warm smile can make a big difference.For those dealing with ParkinsonsPatience is your best friend here.Allow extra time for tasks; dont rush them if movements are slower.Choose activities that dont require fine motor skillsthink painting with broad strokes, arranging flowers, or even simple baking tasks like stirring batter.Celebrate the small victories, and remember that the experience is more important than the outcome.When mobility challenges are in playMake sure all activities are accessible.Set up spaces so they can participate comfortablyuse chairs with good support or tables at the right height.If youre crafting, bring the materials to them instead of having them move around.
You could also set up a cozy spot by the window for bird watching or enjoying a cup of hot cocoa.The goal is to include them without adding any unnecessary strain.For loved ones with sensory issuesBe mindful of overstimulation.Bright lights, loud music, and strong scents can create a sensory overload during the holidays.Keep environments calm and introduce one sensory element at a time.If youre playing soft holiday music, dim the lights.
If youre lighting a scented candle, make sure its a subtle fragrance.Pay attention to their reactions and adjust accordingly.Sometimes, less is more.Experience the joy of the season at The Kensington Falls ChurchAt The Kensington Falls Church, the holidays should be a time of warmth, connection, and joy for everyone.Our assisted living and memory care community specializes in dementia and Alzheimers care, providing personalized support to each resident.With a calendar rich in events and activities for our residents and their families, theres always something meaningful happening here.Our Promise is to love and care for our loved one as we do our own.We invite you to experience a heartwarming community at The Kensington Falls Church.Reach out today to schedule a free tour, or contact our admissions office for more information.
Publisher: Kensington Senior Living ( Read More )
