As seniors age, they may begin to feel a loss of purpose and identity. From decreased mobility,
fewer social interactions and life changes such as the loss of loved ones, seniors can experience loneliness and isolation.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at 6 ways you can make your elderly loved ones feel included by engaging them in everyday tasks and activities.
6 Methods to Make Your Elderly Loved Ones Feel Included
Table of Contents
1. Household Chores and Tasks
While your elderly loved one may have physical limitations and health issues that restrict their activities, there are various household tasks they may be able to help with to feel more useful. From folding laundry, light dusting, and organizing drawers, seniors can lend a helpful hand and enjoy the feeling of being productive and included. Although many families assume these responsibilities as part of their caretaking duties, seniors will appreciate being able to pitch in towards family responsibilities. Some families enlist the help of respite care for seniors, enjoying greater peace of mind knowing professional caretakers are nearby to provide assistance as needed.
2. Cooking and Meal Prep
At some point, cooking and meal prep was likely an important part of your elderly loved one’s life. By including them in meal planning and preparation, you will give them a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Spend some time sitting together to learn what meals and recipes your loved ones enjoy and might be interested in helping to prepare and cook. Perhaps there is a favorite meal or snack they would like to make for others and require a little assistance to do so.
3. Personal Hobbies
There are many hobbies that can help promote health and happiness among seniors. For instance, arts and crafts, gardening, card games, and pet care can all provide stimulation and opportunities for enjoyment and a sense of purpose. Some hobbies can be done independently or with others, increasing the number of social interactions and inclusion.
4. Family Discussions and Decisions
While your elderly loved one may not be able to participate in all family events, that doesn’t mean they don’t have valuable input to contribute. Include them in appropriate family conversations and discussions to ask for their thoughts and opinions. This will go a long way in making them feel seen, heard, and valued in your family and will give them a sense of belonging. By including your loved ones in family discussions, you will give them reassurance that they are an important component of your family and that their input matters.
5. Entertainment
There are many ways for you to enjoy entertainment together with your elderly loved one. Choose a day of the week and make it special with a theme, such as Movie Monday or Fun Friday, where you pick a fun and simple activity that will bring joy to both you and your loved one. Learn what they enjoy and try to incorporate that into your weekly schedule. This will give them something to look forward to and make them feel included. Some ideas include venturing out for a play or movie, watching a game show, completing a puzzle, and heading out to your favorite spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
6. Family Games
Games are a great way to engage and stimulate your elderly loved ones. Not only will they appreciate your company, they will also enjoy the cognitive and physical benefits that come along with playing games. From board games such as Scrabble and Bingo to physical games like Music Ball and Keep-away, seniors have a number of fun and interactive game options to choose from.
As caregivers, it is important to make your elderly loved ones feel included in as many ways as possible. Fortunately, there are many ways to achieve this, including involving them in everyday tasks such as cooking and light cleaning duties, family discussions, hobbies, interactive games, and entertainment. These efforts will help your loved ones maintain a sense of purpose and usefulness despite their physical and mental limitations.
