“Veterans are a symbol of what makes our nation great, and we must never forget all they have done to ensure our freedom.” – Rodney Frelinghuysen
Happy Memorial Day! It is the unofficial start of summer and a great holiday to honor and celebrate those who served our country. Plus, who doesn’t love an excuse to make memories with your family while enjoying the warmer weather?
Spending this day with your senior loved ones may take some planning, mainly if there are mobility issues, but we guarantee that our Memorial Day activities for seniors will bring a smile to your loved one’s face. It’s important to remember that seniors need a change of scenery and stay active to continue to thrive.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Grab your outdoor blankets and chairs and head outdoors to soak up the sun. Studies show that the outdoors improves moods. This is particularly helpful for your senior loved ones who may have been indoors much of the winter.
If you do take your loved one outdoors and the sun is shining bright, make sure to bring along sunglasses and a hat, or perhaps an umbrella. Don’t forget the sunscreen, preferably SPF 15 or higher!
Lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing is best for comfort and air circulation. Make sure your senior is adequately hydrated. Bottled water is the best bet. Encourage them to drink water before going out and every 15 to 20 minutes. If you can, make sure beforehand that bathroom facilities are available.
?If a loved one has a chronic medical condition, talk with their nurse or doctor about any additional precautions to prevent heat-related illness and overexposure to the sun. Keep in mind; the sun can react with some medications, which could put them at risk.
Here are five outdoor activities to consider:
1. Head to your favorite park and enjoy a picnic. Look for a park that has a bench and table making it easier to sit and enjoy all the delicious food.
2. Watch a parade. It’s Memorial Day, and ceremonies are everywhere. Bring comfortable chairs, enjoy the bands and admire the floats. Other traditions include raising the American flag to half-staff from dawn until noon and observing the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 PM local time.
3. Take a boat ride. A pontoon boat with a ramp makes it easy to get seniors in wheelchairs onboard. Don’t forget the sunglasses and sunscreen as well as fun snacks and refreshing, non-alcoholic beverages.
4. Work in the garden. According to the National Gardening Association (NGA), working with plants helps relieve stress, promotes relaxation, and may lessen pain.
5. Go birding or visit a local zoo. Everyone loves to watch animals and listen to unique sounds. Make it a game to try and identify the birds you see and hear.
Take the Party Indoors?Memorial Day doesn’t always guarantee great weather, so bring the party indoors! There are plenty of activities to consider. Here are some ideas to get you started:?
1. Have an indoor picnic. Serve food that is red, white and blue, decorate the table with small American flags and have patriotic music playing in the background. Don’t forget to watch the Indy 500, a real Memorial Day event.
2. Enjoy an ice cream social. Stock up on all the fixings for ice cream sundaes; ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate syrup, nuts, and cherries. It’s a fun, tasty activity for the whole family.
3. Start a craft project. DIY projects are healthy for body, mind, and spirit.
4. Games are always fun and an excellent way to keep your loved one’s mind active and focused. Board games, dominos, cards, and checkers are just a few.
5. Bake some bread or perhaps a cherry pie. Working with dough is soothing to the soul.
Social activities for seniors are essential for maintaining their physical and mental health. Indoors or outdoors, let the Memorial Day festivities and fun summer memories begin!
RMA loves celebrating holidays with you! If you have questions about the Reverse Mortgage for your senior loved one or friend, feel free to give us a call at 1-800-420-5515. The mid-spring season is an excellent time for seniors who need an additional source of income to pursue the Reverse Mortgage. We’ll be waiting for your call. In the meantime, enjoy your Memorial Day!