10 Festive Holiday Activities to Enjoy with Seniors
10 Festive Holiday Activities to Enjoy with Seniors
The holidays are the perfect time to slow down and make some memories with the special seniors in our lives. Whether you’re spending time with grandparents, older relatives, or friends in assisted living, here are ten easy ways to spread the holiday cheer together!
1. Decorating Together
Getting involved in holiday decorating is a wonderful way to brighten up the space and uplift spirits. Seniors can help hang ornaments, choose decorations, or share memories associated with special items. For a simpler option, you can create a small “holiday corner” with lights, ornaments, or holiday-themed photos for a cozy, cheerful touch.
2. Baking Holiday Treats
Baking holiday cookies, gingerbread, or pies is a classic activity, perfect for reminiscing and creating new memories. (Studies show that our sense of smell is most closely related to stored memories.) Who doesn't conjure up cozy memories when they smell baking pumpkin or fresh cut pine? Adapt recipes for ease, using pre-measured ingredients or slice-and-bake dough for convenience. Let seniors join in by decorating cookies, sampling treats, or sharing family recipes.
3. Holiday Music & Caroling
Nothing brings nostalgia quite like holiday music! Create a playlist of classic holiday songs, or arrange a family sing-along or virtual caroling session with friends. If possible, consider bringing in a local choir or musicians for a festive concert — just make sure it's accessible for everyone in attendance. Growing up I remember doing our piano recitals at local nursing homes and I'll never forget the joy it seemed to bring. (despite the mediocre talent some of us had!).
4. Christmas Movie Marathon
Host a holiday movie marathon featuring feel-good classics like It’s a Wonderful Life, White Christmas, or A Charlie Brown Christmas. Serve popcorn, hot cocoa, and cozy blankets for added comfort. A movie marathon provides a way for everyone to relax together and can spark warm memories and conversations.
5. Crafting & DIY Holiday Cards
Holiday crafting is a hands-on activity that can be adapted to many skill levels. Simple projects like making ornaments, painting ceramic decorations, or assembling holiday wreaths can be done with minimal supplies. For a meaningful touch, create holiday cards together to send to family and friends, nursing homes, or local hospitals.
6. Memory Sharing & Storytelling
Encourage seniors to share their holiday memories. Set up a small “story hour” where everyone can take turns reminiscing about favorite traditions, memorable gifts, or funny holiday moments. You might even record these stories or compile them in a scrapbook as a keepsake for family members.
7. Holiday Light Viewing
If weather permits, bundle up and take a drive to view neighborhood holiday lights or decorations. Many communities also offer drive-through holiday light displays. For seniors who prefer to stay indoors, consider watching virtual holiday light tours online or setting up decorative lights by windows to enjoy the view from the warmth of home.
8. Making a Family Recipe Book
Create a holiday or family recipe book together by gathering favorite recipes, especially holiday classics. This is a fantastic way for seniors to pass down family traditions. It’s also a meaningful way for family members to share in cooking or baking special dishes in the years to come.
9. Gift Wrapping Party
Set up a small gift-wrapping station and enjoy the fun of gift-wrapping together. Seniors can help by holding ribbon, folding paper, or writing tags. For added enjoyment, play holiday music or serve holiday treats while wrapping to make it a truly festive experience.
10. Virtual Family Gatherings
If distance or health prevents in-person gatherings, host a virtual family celebration. Arrange a video call where family members and friends can check in, sing carols, or even play games together. Consider making the call interactive, with prompts like “Share your favorite holiday memory” or “Show us your holiday decorations.”
The holiday season is about creating connections, sharing joy, and making cherished memories. With these activities, seniors can actively engage in the festivities while celebrating the warmth and wonder of the season.