While a magical time, winter can be difficult for some seniors. Older adults might feel frustrated because they are stuck at home due to inclement weather or lonely due to limited social interaction. Elderly loved ones may be experiencing the winter blues or seasonal affective disorder, due to lack of sunlight.

If you are caring for an older loved one or know a senior who could use cheering up, view our list of fun things to do. These activities can bring joy and purpose while stimulating happy memories. To make these activities more meaningful, interact and engage in positive ways while having fun together.

Eat

1. Make comfort foods from a family recipe or online trend, such as fried cauliflower
2. Bake some cookies (they don’t have to be from scratch) and decorate them
3. Create your own ice cream parlor/soda fountain and make yummy sundaes or an ice cream soda
4. Make popcorn and add your favorite seasonings or flavors, such as chocolate or garlic
5. Bring on some summer fun by concocting fruity drinks

Play

1. Play a classic board game such as checkers or “Scrabble”
2. Work together to solve crossword puzzles or other brain games you find in newspapers, magazines or online
3. Play a video game – it can be a computer game, an app or a console game
4. Blow bubbles
5. Deal playing cards and play familiar games, such as “War” or “Rummy”

Relax

1. Watch a wacky comedy or classic black and white film
2. Have a spa day at home with facials, manicures or pedicures (Remember to be gentle with the fragile skin of older adults)
3. Look at old family photos and reminisce
4. Read aloud from favorite books
5. Listen to a podcast or radio drama

Create

1. Craft a stash of greeting, birthday or holiday cards so they’ll always be prepared
2. Color in a coloring book or doodle on plain paper
3. Play with clay or “PlayDoh” and make shapes or characters
4. Sew, knit or crochet depending upon their personal preference and abilities
5. Play some of their favorite songs or make up new ones together

Move

1. Do some chair exercises such as arm and leg raises
2. Play a casual game of catch (be sure to use a foam ball)
3. Do some basic yoga moves and meditate
4. Follow along with an aerobic/workout video
5. Have a dance party while listening to new and old tunes, depending on your loved one’s abilities (you can even teach each other dance moves)

If your older loved one needs more care than you can provide, we can help. At ComForCare/ At Your Side Home Care, we go beyond just caring for seniors’ physical needs. Our caregivers can provide meaningful activities that bring joy and purpose to your loved one’s life. Visit our website or call 800-886-4044 to find a location near you.

It doesn’t have to be a special occasion to do engaging activities. Download our “What Are Meaningful Activities?” chart and start making fun a routine in your older loved one’s life.