It’s the 4th of July and it’s time to celebrate our country’s hard-fought independence. If you have a loved one in senior care in Santa Clara and elsewhere, you may be looking for some ways to create a memorable yet safe July 4th celebration.
1. Have a Backyard Barbecue
If Americans are known for anything on the 4th of July and throughout summer, it’s for having great barbecues in the backyard. Let your senior loved one join in the fun but be mindful of their attention span. These events can make it easy for older people to get tired and overstimulated, especially if they have dementia or Alzheimer’s, says DailyCaring. Keep the guest list to a minimum so they don’t get overwhelmed, or plan out some time and a quiet space for them to rest when they feel tired.
Seat them in the shade and provide them with plenty of beverages to stay hydrated. Make sure the menu includes foods that fit their dietary needs.
2. Enjoy a Picnic
If you don’t have the space in your yard, bring the family to a local park for a picnic. Bring a comfortable chair for your senior loved one, and arrive early so as to get a picnic table all to yourselves. If you can, reserve a pavilion with plenty of shade and tables. Bring some entertainment, too, such as Frisbees, footballs, tennis rackets, and fishing poles. Be sure to include an easy activity or two for your senior loved one so that they can participate in the festivities. Serve up patriotic foods like watermelon, hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob, potato salad, fruit salad, and apple pie, suggests Senior Safety Advice. You could also have an ice cream sundae bar complete with all their favorite toppings.
3. See the Fireworks
Many seniors don’t like loud noises or even staying up late to wait for fireworks. Especially if they have dementia or Alzheimer’s, this may be too late for them, and the noises may be overstimulating. Be mindful of the limits of your loved one and plan accordingly. If they do wish to see the fireworks, try to get there early so as to set up camp away from the thick of the crowds and heavy traffic. Have an escape plan laid out if your loved one gets overwhelmed during the show. Bring a sweater or jacket for them in case it gets chilly, and perhaps a blanket. If you think the crowds will be too much for your aging parent, consider watching the fireworks on TV from the comfort of your home.
4. Go to a Parade
Many older adults love a good parade. Get there early and stake out a shady location with comfortable seating. Make sure they wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing for comfort and air circulation, and instruct them to put on sunscreen so they don’t get burned. Map out where the bathrooms are located ahead of time to avoid rushing and accidents.
5. Make Red, White, & Blue Crafts
If outdoor activities are too much for your loved one, consider indoor celebrations instead. Pick up some supplies at a craft store and plan out some fun 4th of July crafts to do with them. They can paint pots, candles, or wine glasses with festive themes and colors. You could also make some paper lanterns, wreaths, or banners in red, white, and blue. This is a great way for young children to enjoy bonding time with their grandparents. If you want to do an outdoor craft, try tie-dye. You’ll just need a white T-shirt or towel, a tie-dye kit, and some rubber bands.
6. Host a Trivia Contest
Once you’ve done your crafts and eaten a patriotic picnic, challenge your senior loved one to some 4th of July trivia. Test their knowledge of U.S. history, divide into teams, and give out small prizes.
7. Play Some Games
Get back to basics with some cards, charades, or board games for a little bit of friendly competition. Have a dance party and put on some patriotic music to celebrate.
8. Watch a Movie
If your senior loved one needs a break from the festivities and wants some quiet time, put on a movie to enjoy together. There are many patriotic movies to watch on the 4th of July.
No matter how you choose to celebrate the holiday, it’s important to remember that social activities for seniors help them maintain their physical and mental health. Plus, these activities can reinforce and strengthen family bonds at the same time. Happy 4th of July!
Contact Pathways Home Health and Hospice
We hope you enjoyed these tips for celebrating the 4th of July with your senior loved one. And rest assured, our caregivers will help out wherever we can in ensuring your loved one celebrates in style. Contact us at 888-978-1306 to learn more about our senior care services in Santa Clara and elsewhere.
