There’s an exciting energy about New Year’s Eve. Everyone spends the day reminiscing on what has come to pass, and everything that is to come in the new year. It is a special time for seniors in particular, as they look back on a lifetime of change and growth and have much wisdom to impart.
If you’re celebrating New Years with your elderly loved one, there are plenty of fun activities you can enjoy together to ring in the new year.
Hold a “mock countdown”
Chances are, your loved one doesn’t want to stay up until midnight to watch the ball drop in Times Square. Plan a fun “mock countdown” that centers around the time zone of your choice. If your loved one has traveled the world, choose the time zone of a location they’re fond of. You could even celebrate different locations at different times during the day to build anticipation without having to stay up too late!
Enjoy some good luck treats
To ensure that the year starts on the right foot, many cultures have their traditions for consuming certain foods to boost one’s luck. For example, Spanish cultures eat 12 grapes at midnight, Scandinavian cultures eat rice pudding with an almond hidden inside, and southern states eat black eyed-peas.
Research what different cultures do to bring in the new year. You may find your culture has a similar tradition you were unaware of.
Host a decades-themed party
Your elderly loved one has lived through major milestones in U.S. history. Celebrate the fun times they’ve had and the unique landmarks of their generation. Decorate your home to reflect a certain decade and invite other seniors over to join in on the fun. Play music from that time, show classic films, eat food that was popular during those years, and even dress up if you like!
Plan your resolutions
New Year’s Eve wouldn’t be complete without resolutions. Encourage your elderly loved one to come up with goals they can focus on in the upcoming year. Help them set reasonable goals that are fairly easy to accomplish instead of setting too lofty goals.
Some ideas might include being more active, eating healthier, or de-cluttering the home. As a caregiver, you could make resolutions of your own such as spending quality time with your elderly loved one or practicing mindfulness.
A caregiver can help you in the new year
If you act as a family caregiver for your loved one, you understand how difficult the work can be. Instead of shouldering it all on your own, get help. At Home Care Powered by AUAF, our compassionate caregivers are here to assist seniors with all the non-medical activities of daily living they require help with. This way, both of you can rest easy knowing your loved one is taken care of.
For more information about our services, give us a call at (623) 526-6367 and make 2023 your best year yet!
