Visiting a loved one in an assisted living center is a great way to brighten their day, strengthen your bond, and provide emotional support. However, it’s not uncommon to wonder what activities you can do together to make your visit more meaningful and enjoyable. To help, here are six fun and engaging ideas to consider for your next visit.
Bring a Favorite Game or Puzzle
Board games, card games, and puzzles are a fantastic way to spend quality time together. Whether it’s a classic game of Scrabble, chess, or a simple deck of playing cards, these activities help stimulate the mind and encourage conversation. If your loved one enjoys puzzles, consider bringing a jigsaw puzzle featuring a scenic landscape or a nostalgic image they’ll appreciate.
Share a Meal or a Special Treat
Food brings people together, and sharing a meal can make a visit extra special. If allowed, bring their favorite homemade dish, a treat from their favorite restaurant, or a sweet snack they enjoy. Many assisted living centers also have dining areas where you can enjoy a meal together. If the weather permits, consider having a picnic outside for a refreshing change of scenery.
Look Through Old Photos and Share Stories
Taking a trip down memory lane can be comforting and joyful. Bring a photo album or scrapbook filled with pictures from different stages of their life. Ask them to share stories about the people and places in the photos. This activity can be especially meaningful for seniors with memory loss, as familiar images can help spark memories and meaningful conversations.
Enjoy Music Together
Music has a powerful effect on mood and memory. Whether your loved one enjoys classical, jazz, country, or rock, play their favorite songs and enjoy the moment together. You can also bring a playlist of songs from their youth, sing along, or even have a little dance. If live music is available at the facility, attending a performance together can also be a fun activity.
Take a Walk or Enjoy Nature
Fresh air and movement can do wonders for a person’s well-being. If your loved one is mobile, take a gentle stroll around the facility’s garden or outdoor area. Even sitting outside and enjoying the sun, birds, and flowers can be a refreshing change of pace. For those with limited mobility, simply sitting by a window and enjoying nature together can be just as fulfilling.
Engage in a Creative Activity
Many seniors enjoy arts and crafts, which can be both relaxing and rewarding. Bring some coloring books, knitting supplies, or painting materials for a fun and creative activity. You could also help them write letters to friends or family, make greeting cards, or start a small DIY project together. Engaging in creativity is not only enjoyable but also great for cognitive stimulation.
Visiting a loved one in an assisted living center doesn’t have to be routine or repetitive. By incorporating fun activities like playing games, sharing meals, enjoying music, or engaging in creative projects, you can make each visit special and memorable. The most important thing is to spend quality time together, showing your love and care in meaningful ways. At The Gables, we try to have activities often so that our residents can enjoy them alongside their visitors when they come.
