Activity Ideas

. Lead a scrapbooking party - it could even go on for more than one event. Ask the residents to bring a few of their favourite photos - old, new, or both. Then they can do a nice layout that can become part of a bigger scrapbook, or framed to keep for themselves, or if it old photos of their youth or with their young family, to give as a gift.

2. A baking party. Many seniors miss having their own kitchen when they move into a residence. Make arrangements with the kitchen to reserve an hour or so, then the residents can group up, choose a simple recipes like cookies or cupcakes and have fun. They can share them with the other residents, or save some for when their family comes to visit.

3. A book club. Even seniors who can't see well enough to read can often borrow the book on tape from the library (make sure this is available when choosing a book).

4. See if you can get your local Girl Guides or Boy Scout units to come in for a visit. They could discuss what they are learning in their programs, sing camp songs, etc...

5. Walking club - see if you can organize a group to go out walking in the neighbourhood. Many seniors feel safer and more confident in a group setting, rather than heading out on their own.

6. An exercise club. Even if you don't have a teacher, there are videos that are you could follow with them that are specifically geared to seniors. Tai Chi and certain forms of Yoga are excellent for supporting their flexibility, strength and balance.

I really enjoy doing crosswords and other puzzles to help keep my mind active. A favourite site of mine is Crosswords for Fun > Home - they have puzzle subscriptions at very reasonable prices and free ones that you can try out to see if you like them. Well worth a look.

Cheers,
Alex

Well thanks so much Alex for sharing your idea with us. I am sure a lot of seniors and some younger folk love crossword puzzles. We are always looking for great ideas to share.

Lots of seniors (and some not-yet seniors ) enjoy coloring outline pictures with pencils, markers or crayons. There are many G-rated adult coloring pictures to print free on the web: Coloring Fun for Adults

My Girlfriends Mother Did Some Of These Pictures. She Was Very Ill. She Was A Wonderful Artist In Her Own Right But Was Unable To Do So When She Became Sick. She Loved Doing These To Keep Busy. Sad To Say She Passed Away.

How about jigsaw puzzle party...I loved doing jigsaw puzzles and now my daughter does them with her daughter...

Smiles & Hugs...

C4G, Oh yes, I go to visit my nan at the nursing home, everythursday night is puzzle night.
They also have game night every friday and Movie premiere night, this is kind of a hoot to do. Everyone gets dolled up and heads down to the theature room. We have punch, goodies. It is a blast.

Deb C

Sounds like a lot of fun. Thanks for sharing.