If you’re caring for a senior at home and venturing out less in order to keep them – and you – safe and healthy, we know it may be difficult to keep them entertained and engaged. But do not fear! Thanks to some excellent sources out there, we found tons of activities you can do with your loved one while you’re social distancing and staying indoors. Some of these may also be fun for the kiddos who need a break from their non-traditional school work.
Take a Virtual Tour
Zoos, aquariums, museums, and theme parks are offering virtual tours. Seniors can explore the following online from the comfort of your own home:
- Animals in their own habitat through live-streaming webcams
- Art exhibits from some of the most famous museums around the world. One of our favorites we found on Facebook, The Van Gogh Museum allows you to wander (virtually) through their museum for free!
- Theme park tours and virtual rides
Check out these 30 Amazing Virtual Tours via GoodHouseKeeping.com
Get Creative
Help seniors get in touch with their creative side.
- Coloring isn’t just for kids. Many websites offer free coloring pages for download. We found some great coloring sheets – from pop art and nature to vintage and inspiration quotes – that you can download and print for free.
- Start a fun project like creating a scrapbook or organizing family photo albums
- Make some family recipes and include them in a recipe book.
Train the Brain
Brain training games and puzzles may keep the brain sharp and enhance mental fitness for your seniors.
- Sudoku, crosswords and word search puzzles can be done online or on paper.
- Websites like Lumosity and Happy Neuron offer puzzles, games and other challenges for the mind.
Spend Time Outdoors
Fresh air can be a great mood booster.
- Sit on the front porch to read or listen to music.
- Do some birdwatching in the backyard. We found org as an amazing resource for exploring birds near you.
- Go for short walks around the neighborhood, keeping at least a six-foot distance from those who pass by.
Stay Connected
If your loved one doesn’t know how to use video functions like FaceTime, Skype or Google Hangouts, help them figure it out so that they can stay connected to other family members and friends.
During times of stress and uncertainty, it’s important to stop, take a breath and remember we’re all in this together. FirstLight Home Care is here to provide the emotional and physical support that gives you and your loved one a feeling of comfort, safety and peace of mind.
The very nature of home care makes it the safest care environment for our elderly clients during this uncertain time. We remain available to provide much-needed care to the people who need us most. We can even run errands, deliver food and supplies or pick up prescriptions. If you need our help, find a location near you.
If you want to get valuable information, support and inspiration in your inbox each week, including helpful advice on caring for you and your loved ones. Sign up for our newsletter today!
Sources:
GoodHouseKeeping.com: Best Virtual Tours
VeryWellMind.com: Best Brain Training Websites and Games
DailyCaring.com: 9 Enjoyable Activities for Seniors