Celebrating Milestones: How to Make Special Occasions Memorable for Your Elderly Loved Ones
In the wake of the COVID pandemic, many families grappled with redefining the way they celebrate special occasions. For families with elderly loved ones the struggle has been particularly poignant as social distancing and other safety precautions, made it increasingly challenging to find meaningful ways to celebrate special milestones.
Mama’s Journey | Accustomed to vibrant family gatherings, Mama was the heart of every occasion, always making sure everyone felt the warmth of connection. In the beginning of Mama’s move, she continued her tradition of making sure we celebrated every special occasion or milestone. Whether she was bustling in the kitchen cooking traditional Jamaican cuisine, or checking in to make sure a good time was had by all, Mama was the epitome of the “host extraordinaire.” Yet, as her journey through aging unfolded amidst health challenges and the shifting landscape of the pandemic, we found ourselves at a crossroads. It became our responsibility to continue Mama's cherished traditions, prompting us to explore innovative ways to infuse celebrations with the same joy she had always brought to our lives.
Whether she was bustling in the kitchen cooking traditional Jamaican cuisine, or checking in to make sure a good time was had by all, Mama was the epitome of the “host extraordinaire.”
Here are some ideas for celebrating meaningful milestones:
Create a Video Montage
Ask family and friends to make a short video message (no longer than 1 minute), reflecting on a favorite memory or something they learned from their loved one. Be sure to incorporate your loved one’s favorite music into the montage. This will certainly be a tear jerker, so grab some tissues.
Make a Memory Box
Ask family and friends to write letters, or notes to your loved one. You could also ask your loved one to tell you their favorite memories and write them down. Add pictures of loved ones, and cherished souvenirs. Place in a special handcrafted/decorative box for your loved one to open and enjoy.
PRO TIP: Decorate a shoe box or purchase a decorative box if you don’t feel especially creative to make one. You can find some great ones online. I found this one on Amazon. it stand out
Have a Virtual Family Gathering
If family members are spread out geographically, organize a virtual gathering. Use video conferencing tools (like Zoom or Google Meet) to bring everyone together for a virtual celebration. You can play games, share stories, and even enjoy a virtual meal together. This was everyone’s go to for connecting during the pandemic and it continues to be a great way to include family and friends in celebrations, especially those that are far away.
Create a Themed Photo Album/Scrapbook
Create a photo album with loved ones that depict special memories and creates a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Some ideas are: “ Mama throughout the years”, “All my Children, or Grandchildren”, … Family Gatherings”, “Mama’s Travels”, etc. Get Creative!
PRO TIP: You can also use a digital picture frame so your loved one can see the pictures display over and over again. Check out this digital frame I purchased for my mother on Amazon. The pictures have her spellbound. I also ask other family members to send pictures directly to the app for her to enjoy.
Write a Book
Write short stories or anecdotes about your loved one's life. Include funny events, heartwarming moments, and lessons learned. Get everyone involved - ask family and friends help. Name the book and get it bounded, and gift to your loved one. This will be nostalgic for them but also they can be shared with generations to come.
Create a Customized Playlist
Music has a powerful way of evoking emotions and memories. Create a playlist of songs from different periods of their life. Play during your celebration, and dance, dance, dance!
Have a Themed Movie Night
Create movie theatre experience at home! Choose a theme based on your loved one's interests or favorite era, and plan a movie night accordingly. Create a cozy atmosphere with themed decorations and fun snacks. Don’t forget your popcorn!
Go on a Movie Date
Take your loved one to a movie. Find movies that they enjoy, or better yet surprise them. Make it a family affair.
PRO TIP: Go during the day when the theatre is not crowded. Some theaters have special showtimes with subtitles for people who have impaired hearing.
Take a Day or Weekend Excursion
Think about what their interests are, maybe a place they’ve always wanted to go. Drive to the mountains, or to the beach or the lake. Take the scenic route. Arrange for other family or friends to join. See our blog, Safe Travels: 10 Essential Tips for Traveling with Elderly Family Members.
PRO TIP: Consider any physical limitations that your loved one may have when deciding where to travel.
Have a Craft Day
Engage in a creative activities like painting, pottery, or crafting. This can be a therapeutic and enjoyable way to spend time together. Choose projects that align with their interests and abilities. You can do this at home or find local activity centers or businesses that provide this service.
Cooking or Baking Day
Spend the day in the kitchen preparing a special meal or baking treats together. Choose recipes that hold sentimental value or are favorites from the past. Make it a family affair and don’t forget to have your loved one’s favorite music playing.
Have a Game Day
Choose games that are suitable for their cognitive abilities. Board games, puzzles, or trivia related to their interests can be both entertaining and mentally stimulating.
Create a Spa Day at Home
Pamper your loved one with a spa day at home. Set up a relaxing environment with scented candles, soothing music, and spa treatments.
Have an Outdoor Excursion
Plan an outdoor activity based on your loved one’s mobility and interests. It could be a scenic drive, a picnic in the park, or a visit to a botanical garden.
Remember to tailor these ideas to your elderly loved one's preferences, abilities, and comfort level. The key is to create an atmosphere of joy and connection while honoring their unique interests and life experiences.
