Palm Springs grandparents count down the days until holiday visits with their grandchildren, but find that when they arrive; they aren’t really sure what to do to pass the days, or how to find activities that appeal to all generations celebrating under one roof. Some grandparents try to go overboard in planning activities, while others leave plans strictly up to impulse; in both cases, too much pressure is put on the implementation of holiday activities. Grandparents simply need to make a point to include children of all ages in regular holiday activities that are age appropriate, and focus on appreciating the time spent together rather than stressing over what to do. Here are some great ways for grandparents and grandchildren to bond over the holidays:
1. Choose decorations – add some new decorations to your household annually. They don’t have to be expensive, but do bring some of your grandchildren who are visiting with you. You can browse the holiday decor and choose items together. They will love returning year after year to see their decoration choices in your home!
2. Decorate together – involve your grandchildren in decorating, and allow them to get creative. Holiday decorations don’t need to be used in the same way year after year. You’ll have as much fun coming up with new creative ideas, and reminiscing about how you used decor during previous years
3. Prepare meals together – the whole family can get involved in meal preparation. Simply letting a grandchild add water from a measuring cup into a baking recipe will make them feel involved and proud when the items are served!
Many Palm Springs seniors live day to day on limited incomes, with perhaps only enough savings to get them through their retirement by meeting the financial obligations that come with daily living. Since some seniors aren’t even sure how they will find the funding to pay for healthcare should a medical emergency occur; they certainly aren’t thinking about unnecessary luxuries like education. It is this line of thinking that stops seniors from furthering their educations or taking courses on topics that have always interested them. But, with education being made more affordable to older adults; they don’t have to let finances stand in the way any longer.
Ways Education is Made Affordable to Older Adults:
• Many public colleges allow seniors to take individual courses or complete programs either for free, or at a significantly discounted cost
• Scholarships are offered by colleges and independent organizations to help senior students pursue their education
• Seniors are often invited to audit classes for free – which means sitting in on lectures – without completing any coursework or tests
• Many colleges offer programs geared specifically for seniors which are often shorter courses of 6-8 weeks
Q – I am a care recipient for an elderly gentleman in Phoenix; for years, we have taped episodes of Dancing with the Stars and watched it during the day during our time together. Since this is one of the few interests that we share, I’ve been thinking about introducing my senior to ballroom dancing through lessons at a local community center in Palm Springs; however, I’m wondering if it is a safe activity for a 82 year old man with a history of arthritis?
A – Dancing with the Stars has made many seniors and their caregivers across the United States consider ballroom dancing as a fun activity that is great for entertainment as well as exercise. Studies have shown that ballroom dancing can reduce instances of Alzheimer’s and dementia, increase flexibility, stimulate the mind and improve overall cardiovascular health. While you are right to be cautious about pursuing any physical activity, it can be a very safe activity for seniors of any age when learned under the supervision of an experienced ballroom dancing instructor who has a background working with seniors. When engaging in any physical activity with a senior, you should always be aware of any signs that they are struggling physically as a result of the activity. Shortness of breath or extreme perspiration my may be signs of overexertion, and if he mentions unusual pain in any of his joints or muscles it may be time to ease off the dancing. Otherwise, start dancing like your favorite stars, and he’ll be well on his way to better health!
Many seniors don’t want to celebrate their birthdays with big lavish parties; they are most happy being surrounded by the friends and family who they care about most. So to make your grandma’s approaching birthday something special, instead of having an extensive guest list; think about what she’d really like to do to celebrate her birthday. Check out upcoming events in Palm Springs and see if there’s a symphony, play, or even a movie that you know your grandma would enjoy. Organize to have her closest friends and family get together to take in the show together, and then go out after for a nice meal at a favorite restaurant, sit down for an evening of cocktails, or grab coffee at a Palm Springs coffee house. Your grandmother will appreciate the thought that has gone into organization a special birthday that is well-suited to her specific interests, and will love the chance just to spend time with those who mean the most to her.
With many seniors, it’s not about the gifts or the grand gestures; it’s about the quality time with those they love on their birthdays.
It’s not unusual for seniors to retire from their careers only to wonder what’s next for them. After years of remaining busy with balancing careers, social lives, and raising their children; retirement can feel quiet and isolated. When seniors feel that they’ve lost their sense of purpose, they can become depressed and withdrawn and might feel like they don’t have anything to get out of bed for each day. Volunteering is a great way for seniors to regain the sense of responsibility that they may be lacking and they can give back to their local Palm Springs community and really make a difference, which can result in a great sense of accomplishment and self-fulfillment.
With lots of charitable organizations and other causes in Palm Springs for seniors to choose from when deciding where to volunteer; it can be difficult to know where to start. Seniors can find that they will feel that they’re making the biggest impact by choosing an organization or charity that has played a significant role in their lives. Many seniors choose to volunteer with Alzheimer’s or cancer organizations to give back on behalf of a spouse or friend who suffered with related diseases or illnesses. Others might choose to volunteer with community youth organizations as a follow up to a career working as a teacher; and some may choose to volunteer their time with an organization like Meals on Wheels that has helped them in the past during a less fortunate time in their life.
Choosing to volunteer with an organization that means something to them will help seniors regain the sense of responsibility that they’re lacking in their retirement, and they’ll know they’re doing something good for their community.
Regardless of the trials and tribulations that seniors face as they age, it’s important that they maintain a social life and don’t loose touch with their network of family and friends in Palm Springs. With so many changes that can make a senior want to withdraw into isolation, such as loss of a spouse or close friends, it’s important that seniors are encouraged by their caregivers and family to entertain their friends and remain actively social so that they have something to keep them motivated and in good spirits throughout their lives.
Social activities for seniors don’t have to fall within particular conventions, to keep things fresh and interesting, caregivers and families can help seniors plan unique events to entertain their friends and family, and also help them manage the workload that can come with entertaining. Hosting an afternoon tea party can help seniors break from their norm; seniors can invite a small or large group of people to their home and entertain outside or by the cozy comfort of a living room fireplace. The work involved can be kept minimal with simple but delicious favors which can be made at home or picked up from a local bakery. Pastries, scones, muffins and other baked goods are perfect for an afternoon tea party, along with an assortment of jams and a wide varieties of teas that the guests can choose from. To make things even more light and fun, guests can even be encouraged to dress up, so they can dine in class and feel just like the Queen of England at a fancy tea party.
Many [location] seniors claim to fear the use of new technology; but despite their hesitancies, it’s never too late for an old dog to learn new tricks. Computers aren’t just for the younger generations, seniors can benefit from computer use in a number of ways; strategy based computer games are a great way to exercise their minds and improve memory skills; and the internet gives seniors to a wealth of information that allows them to educate themselves about health and aging. Caregivers can try to help educate seniors at home about basic computer and internet use, or they can find a class offered by a local college of community center in [location].
Computer classes offered for seniors can include the very basics; including turning it on and off, moving the mouse, and opening and closing programs. Basic computer introduction classes for seniors may also touch upon word processing skills; like opening Microsoft Word, typing, saving the document and printing. Since many seniors looking to learn about computer use are likely to try and use the internet both as a resource and method of communication through email; they might be interested in taking classes to learn about the basics of web browsing and sending and receiving email. For those who have rusty typing skills or who have had no previous experience with typing on a typewriter; typing classes can also be beneficial to seniors who want to start using the computer.
You’ve been told it’s time to get moving for the health of your heart, but you’ve been more sedentary in older adulthood and just don’t know how to begin or what to do to ensure that your health and safety remains a priority. You’re not alone, so don’t hesitate to get started and follow these guidelines:
1. Talk to a doctor – seniors should never start a new exercise program without first consulting a doctor
2. Invest in the right clothing – the right clothing is important for anyone who’s engaged in a physical activity, but seniors who are sensitive to changing temperatures and at a greater risk for injury should be more cautious. Supportive, comfortable shoes are essential, and clothing should be loose yet flexible and breathable
3. Always warm-up – exercise should never begin without a warm-up to prevent injury. A low-impact activity can warm up muscles, get blood circulating and increase overall body temperature
4. Don’t start too quickly – early into an exercise program, seniors need to build their endurance. Going too hard, too fast can be physically damaging. Intensity can be built as endurance improves
5. Cool down – a cool down portion of a workout is as important as the warm-up. It allows the body to physically cool down and move into a state of rest
6. Schedule it in – to keep up the motivation to exercise, seniors should set their next workout!
Simple lifestyle changes are the best way for a senior to incorporate exercise into your daily routine; drastic changes are less likely to be kept up so benefit your heart with these activities:
1. Park farther from entrances in parking lots – instead of parking as close to the door as possible, park a little bit further away to get in some exercise
2. Start walking before you arrive at your house – if you’re taking a bus or even getting a ride, get out a few minutes early and walk the rest of the way to your destination
3. Take the stairs – depending upon your physical abilities, taking the stairs instead of an elevator or escalator can benefit you greatly
4. Take a break – if you work or are engaged in volunteer activities, take a little stroll on your break
5. See cleaning as exercise – try to turn housework into exercise and do it at a brisk pace. Vacuum, mow the lawn, dust or rake leaves and get your heart rate up
6. Walk your pet – if you have a dog, it needs exercise, but so do you. Make it an enjoyable activity to do together daily
7. Exercise with family – if you live with family members, make exercise part of your ritual. Or invite friends or family for a stroll in the park
Socialization can be a hard one for seniors to get into after they’ve become isolated due to mourning or mobility. To many seniors, it feels like being the new kid at a new school all over again, and they feel intimidated to get out there. Don’t let your reservations hold you back though. Get yourself out there, and improve your health and happiness starting today!
1. Join social activities – in your community, find groups designed for seniors like exercise classes, crafts, college courses, dance classes, and social events. These are great places to make new friends and have fun. Of course, you don’t only need to meet other seniors; you can interact with people of all ages, but having a support group of people with similar life issues can be helpful
2. Volunteer in your community – volunteer at a senior’s home, even if you live independently, and connect with other seniors; giving back to those who might not have the same benefits you do in your life. They will appreciate the camaraderie and so will you
3. Bring people to you – if it’s a challenge to come out, invite friends and family to you. Don’t go all out, simply invite them for tea or desert so little preparation is necessary. Ask someone to help you prepare if you need it
4. Use the internet – social networking and other technologies can help you stay social and in touch with those who don’t live nearby. This is a great way for seniors who struggle with mobility, or even hearing, to continue to establish meaningful connections
