Winter Holiday Activities for Seniors

By Anna Hazard

This time of year is the perfect time to catch up with your extended family, especially with those who may be dealing with the loss of family or friends. Just keep in mind that seasonal activities and celebrations may need to be adjusted for special needs (such as mobility problems and other health concerns).
 
Remember to pace activities and schedule in breaks to wind down and catch the breath of those who may not have the stamina to keep up. Here are a few suggestions for this winter season.

Card & Board Games
 Card & Board Games are a family friendly choice, especially tried and true favorites such as poker, Uno, chinese checkers, Monopoly, and the Game of Life.

Music
Both for the holidays and golden oldies are a good way to relax from a hectic day, just as long as the right balance is struck (loud enough for everyone to hear, but not overbearing for those with more sensitive hearing)

Movies 
A staple of the holidays from new releases to be enjoyed in the theatre to old goodies such as It's a Wonderful Life, A Charlie Brown Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street which can be viewed in the comfort of your own home

Story Telling Time
An activity where your loved seniors can take center stage with their vaster accumulation of stories from the past

Holiday Crafts & Card Making 
 A good group activity, both for those elders who are still adept with their fingers and for those who may need a bit of help when it comes to decorating and sending out cards

Holiday Decorations 
This can be a full family activity when it comes to creating new decorations through crafts, setting up old treasured ornaments, or going around the neighborhood or to the local mall to view what others are displaying. Keep in mind that those with mobility problems may benefit more from a car trip around the neighborhood rather than walking on foot.

Festive Meals
Both the preparation of holiday treats and their subsequent consumption can be a happy group activity. Special tea parties based around the "Cup of Christmas Tea" books are a particularly popular -- and not too stressful to prepare --  activity this time of year.

Shopping
When it comes to getting ahold of gifts, your older family members may need a bit of help. If a local shopping trip poses a problem than an introduction to the wonders of online shopping may be in order.