Home Care for Halloween? How Caregivers Get Seniors Involved in Fall Fun
Halloween brings countless ways to celebrate the season. You can enjoy a warm mug of hot cocoa or apple cider, settle in with a thrilling horror movie, or craft a unique costume. This time of year is filled with excitement and magic, making it easy to see why seniors can be eager to join the fun.
Professional caregivers can help seniors enjoy the spooky holiday happenings by helping to put up spooky decorations, give out candy to trick-or-treaters, or provide some much-needed companion care. However, it’s important to prioritize their safety while they’re celebrating. Thoughtful planning lets them enjoy the festivities without unnecessary risks.
Caregivers can communicate with seniors about their preferences and comfort levels regarding the holiday. Some may want to participate in themed activities, while others might prefer a quieter celebration or choose to opt-out entirely.
By having open conversations, caregivers can help seniors feel respected and empowered in their choices this spooky season, all while staying safe.
Halloween Decorations Without the Fright
Halloween decorations can add a festive touch to any home. But with seniors, there are some additional considerations to think of before you hang up the witchy decor:
- Help with putting up decorations
Trying to put up decorations can easily cause strain or injury. Help your elderly loved one with unwieldy decorations and those placed up high. - Avoid tripping hazards
Keep pathways and common areas free from extension cords or loose decorations that could cause seniors to trip and fall. - When in doubt, opt for non-scary decorations
Hair-raising decorations can be disorienting for seniors with memory or cognitive issues.| - Avoid motion-activated decorations
Unexpected movements or loud noises can startle seniors and lead to falls. - Keep lighting safe and sufficient
All areas, especially hallways and stairwells, should be well-lit to prevent accidents while maintaining a festive vibe.
Professional caregivers can lend a hand with any of these tasks—decorating together is fun, and it’s a great way for your aging loved one and their caregiver to bond.
Tips for a Stress-Free Trick-or-Treat
For many, trick-or-treat is a highlight of Halloween. Seeing children dressed up as ghouls and goblins is adorable, and passing out treats can be fun. But for some seniors, especially those with cognitive issues, it can be stressful. Having multiple unfamiliar faces at the door minute after minute can cause anxiety. Standing at the door and handing out candy can also fatigue many seniors.
Here are a few options for making trick-or-treat stress-free:
- Set out a candy bowl with a fun note
This way, your senior can give children candy without ringing doorbells and people in the home. - Make sure your senior can sit near the door
It’s safer for seniors if they aren’t rushing through the hallways and risking falls. - Display a “no more candy” sign when done for the night
Trick-or-treating can go on for quite a few hours. When your senior is tired or done for the night, shut off outdoor lights along with a sign asking trick-or-treaters not to knock or ring the doorbell.
In general, seniors with mobility or cognitive issues shouldn’t be alone during trick-or-treating. Visiting Angels caregivers can hand out candy, answer the doorbell, and help your senior participate in the fun.
Holiday Activities Perfect for Seniors
Many seniors will love a few themed activities to help them enjoy the season. Some fun, safe options include:
- Painting decorations
This creative and safe activity lets seniors enjoy seasonal decorating at their own pace. - Movie marathon
Enjoy a night of classic holiday films, whether thrilling or nostalgic, depending on preferences. - Festive baking
Get into the spirit by helping your senior make themed treats like themed cookies and cupcakes. - Choosing a costume
You can even help your senior make their own.
Home Care Can Help Your Senior Have a Festive Holiday
The holidays don’t have to be a time of anxiety. With the right support, your senior can fully participate in the excitement of the season, creating new memories while staying safe and comfortable. Visiting Angels caregivers can help enrich your senior’s fall season by leading them in fun activities and setting up decorations and costumes.