I’ve always loved the holidays. There’s something magical about this time of year—cozy traditions, festive decorations, and time spent with family. For me, the best part is sharing the season with my family, watching my parents light up as they pass down family traditions or laugh along with the grandkids. As a mom of three, I know how important it is to make sure everyone feels included, especially aging loved ones who might sometimes feel left out.
The holidays can be stressful, confusing, or even lonely for seniors, so I always try to find ways to involve my parents in activities that bring them joy and make them feel connected. Whether it’s baking together, decorating the house, or simply watching holiday movies as a family, these moments are what make the season truly special.
To help inspire your holiday plans, I’ve put together 15 fun and meaningful activities that you and your senior loved ones can enjoy together this season.
1. Attend Local Events
The holiday season offers a variety of local events, from festive light shows and parades to concerts and community pageants. Look for activities that match your senior’s interests and mobility level. Whether you bundle up for a stroll through a holiday market or enjoy a local choir’s performance, attending events together creates new memories while getting seniors out and about.
Tip: Check with community centers or senior-friendly groups for accessible event options.
2. Wrap Presents Together
Turn gift wrapping into a bonding activity! Many seniors love the creativity of choosing colorful paper, curling ribbons, and adding bows. Wrapping holiday gifts together is a simple but meaningful way to spend time and share conversation.
Bonus Idea: Make it extra festive with holiday music or treats, like hot chocolate or cookies, to set the mood.
3. Watch Movies
Holiday movies are perfect for seniors to enjoy with family and friends. They spark nostalgia, laughter, and heartwarming moments. Some great options include:
- It’s a Wonderful Life: A timeless story of community and love.
- Home Alone: Perfect for multigenerational gatherings, full of laughs and iconic moments.
- National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: A comedy classic for those who enjoy humor.
- Polar Express: A modern animated classic that rekindles childhood wonder.
- White Christmas: A musical that seniors may remember fondly from their younger days.
Tip: If watching at home, ensure comfy seating and good lighting for a cozy movie night.
4. Bake a Favorite Family Recipe
Nothing says holidays like the smell of freshly baked cookies or pies. Invite your senior loved one to share their favorite family recipes and baking tricks. Cooking together is a wonderful way to pass down traditions to younger generations and create lasting memories.
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5. Make a Memory Ornament
Crafting ornaments is an affordable, sentimental, and fun activity. Seniors can personalize their creations with photos, favorite colors, or holiday themes. Some ornament ideas include:
- Salt dough ornaments with handprints
- Clear glass balls filled with photos, glitter, or ribbon
- Wood or ceramic ornaments painted by hand
These homemade keepsakes will become cherished reminders of time spent together.
6. Organize a Holiday House Crawl
If your senior loves to socialize, plan a holiday house crawl! Visit family members’ or friends’ homes in one night, with each stop offering snacks, decorations, or mini activities. It’s a fun way to fit in multiple visits and keep seniors engaged throughout the evening. Plus, it helps them stay connected with loved ones.
Tip: Plan shorter visits to avoid fatigue, and ensure safe transportation for your senior loved one.
7. Decorate the House
Decorating is a fantastic way to lift the holiday spirit. Whether it’s putting up a Christmas tree, hanging garlands, or arranging a menorah, involve your senior loved one. Decorating can spark fond memories and allow them to share cherished traditions.
8. Play Games
Games are an easy and fun way to bring family together, including seniors. Choose accessible options like:
- Uno or Dominoes for simple card and tile fun
- Scrabble or crossword puzzles to keep the mind sharp
- Bingo with festive prizes
Games foster connection, encourage friendly competition, and provide plenty of laughs.
9. Host a Family Talent Show
Give everyone in the family a chance to shine with a holiday-themed talent show! Sing songs, tell jokes, play instruments, or perform skits. Seniors can participate by showcasing a talent or enjoying the entertainment from family members of all ages.
Bonus Idea: Record the show to share with loved ones who couldn’t attend.
10. Go Shopping Together
Help seniors enjoy the tradition of gift-giving by taking them shopping. Whether in person or online, assist them in picking thoughtful gifts for friends and family. Your input and companionship will make the process easier and more enjoyable.
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11. Host a White Elephant Gift Exchange
Bring laughter and excitement to the holidays with a white elephant gift exchange. Everyone brings a wrapped gift, and participants draw numbers to pick or “steal” gifts. It’s a lighthearted activity perfect for large families or community gatherings.
Idea: Set a low spending limit and include fun, quirky gifts that make people smile.
12. Write Holiday Cards
Sending cards is a heartfelt tradition that helps seniors connect with loved ones near and far. Encourage your senior to write cards together, whether handwritten, typed, or even recorded as video messages.
13. Throw a Virtual Party
If your senior loved one can’t travel or attend in-person events, host a virtual holiday party! You can still have a great time even when you are miles apart. Use video chat platforms to share stories, play online games, or enjoy a “digital dinner” together.
Idea: Plan activities like trivia or a virtual cookie-decorating contest to keep everyone engaged.
14. Serve Someone Else
The holidays are a wonderful time to give back. Volunteering together can be fulfilling for seniors and younger generations alike. Ideas include:
- Donating toys or coats to a local drive.
- Wrapping gifts for charity events.
- Serving meals at a community center or food kitchen.
Spreading kindness is a meaningful way to celebrate the season.
15. Decorate Gingerbread Houses
Gather supplies for gingerbread house decorating and make it a festive tradition. Seniors can build their own masterpieces or serve as the “judge” for a friendly family competition. It’s a creative, delicious, and fun activity for all ages.
Helping Seniors Have Happy Holidays
Including seniors in holiday activities is about more than just spreading cheer — it’s about creating meaningful moments that build connection and joy. The holidays offer endless opportunities to make seniors feel loved and included.
If your loved one needs extra support to fully enjoy the season, Caring Senior Service is here to help. Our caregivers ensure seniors stay engaged, safe, and comfortable during this special time of year. We help older adults maintain their quality of life at home. Contact your local Caring team today to learn more!
