12 Meaningful and Fun Activities to Do With Elderly Parents

Finding ways to keep our elderly parents engaged and happy can sometimes feel like a puzzle, especially as their interests and abilities change. If you're often searching for things to do or placed to go with elderly parents, you know it’s not just about filling time—it’s about connecting and creating joyful moments together. And sometimes, its just about getting out of the house or breaking up the monotony.

For our aging loved ones, staying active and involved is about much more than just passing the time; it's essential for their mental and emotional health. Simple activities, whether at home or on small outings, can significantly boost their spirits and overall well-being.

Comforting Indoor Activities

1. Cooking and Baking

   Cooking family recipes or experimenting with new dishes can be more than just meal prep; it's a way to relive cherished memories and maybe create some new ones. Plus, who doesn’t love the smell of cookies baking in the oven? It's about the journey, not about the destination. Even if the new recipe you're experimenting with doesn't earn you a spot on the Food Network's next hit show, the time you spend with your loved one and the activity itself is the focus.

   
   

2. Crafting Together

   Sit down together and engage in some light crafting. This can be anything from knitting to scrapbooking. It's about enjoying each other's company and maybe even laughing over a tangled ball of yarn or two. You can also consider a crafting class at a local store, such as Michael's or Hobby Lobby, or a painting class at a "Wine and Canvas" type shop.

   
   

3. Game and Movie Nights

   Set up a cozy area and dive into some board games that are easy on the mind and gentle on the body. Games like Rummikub or Scrabble are perfect. Follow up with a movie night, featuring films that bring back good old times, to keep the nostalgia and conversation flowing. Perhaps pair this with cooking or baking for a theme night - watch The Talented Mr. Ripley and make homemade pizza. Have you made homemade pasta before? Watch Under the Tuscan Sun while waiting for the pasta to dry. Or, alternatively, feature classics from their youth for a touch of nostalgia.

   
   

4. Reading and Storytelling

   Read out loud from a beloved book or set up a storytelling time where they can share tales from the past. This can be a wonderful way to keep family stories alive and learn about each other’s lives.

Gentle Outdoor and Community Activities

1. Light Exercise and Nature Walks

   Encourage regular, light physical activity by walking in local parks or along paths that are easy to navigate. This not only helps maintain physical health but also lifts the spirits with a bit of fresh air and nature’s beauty.

   
   

2. Visiting Local Attractions

   Take gentle strolls through local museums or gardens. These places offer visual and sensory stimulation and are usually accessible, making the walk easy and enjoyable.

   
   

3. Attending Community Events

   Look for local events like community plays, light concerts, or craft fairs that provide gentle entertainment and opportunities to socialize.

   
   

4. Shopping and Errands

   Sometimes, a simple outing to shop or run errands can break the monotony. These trips offer a sense of normalcy and a bit of independence, which can be very empowering. It also helps you assess their cognitive skills, if that is a concern.

Special Trips and Education Opportunities

1. Cultural Day Trips

   Plan easy day trips to places of interest that don’t require much walking or are wheelchair accessible. Historical sites or scenic drives can be relaxing and stimulating.

   
   

2. Relaxing by the Water

   If accessible, a quiet day by the water can be incredibly soothing. Whether it’s a lake, river, or ocean, the water has a naturally calming effect.

   
   

3. Joining Workshops

   Look for local art or gardening classes that accommodate older adults. These can be great fun and offer a sense of accomplishment when they learn something new. Do they enjoy gardening, check out Master Gardener events nearby. Crafts? Your local Michaels, Hobby Lobby, or other fabric store may have classes. Lowes or Home Depot often have classes as well. Birding? Ask at Birds Unlimited what they recommend or places they suggest.

Embracing Technology

1. Virtual Tours and Experiences

   Explore virtual tours of famous locations around the world. Many museums and parks offer these tours for free, and they can be a great way to see the world without leaving home. This can be especially helpful for those who are less mobile. Popular virtual tours include:

   • The Louvre Museum in Paris, offering a look at its famous exhibits.

   • Yosemite National Park virtual tours, which showcase stunning natural beauty.

   • The Surface of Mars with the Curiosity rover, for a truly out-of-this-world experience.

Finding activities that keep your aging parents engaged is crucial for their emotional and mental health. Sometimes its about making their days richer, sometimes its to have a break from the same thing day in and day out. Whatever your reason, hopefully this list will give you a few ideas for things to do or places to go with your elderly parents.