The moments we spend with our older parents are some of the most valuable things in the world. Forging memories together, sharing a laugh, and nurturing that connection are essential. But just because it’s important doesn’t mean it isn’t challenging to think of new things to do.
There are many ways you can spend time having fun with your parents, including:
- Family game nights
- Volunteering for a worthy cause
- Day trips
- Taking a class together
- A family reunion
- Playing music together
- Spending time together
The world can be fast-paced, so sometimes it can help to slow down and enjoy being present together.
Plan a Family Game Night
Who doesn’t love a good game night? It’s a way to spend time with your parents and try out new games, all while sparking friendly competition. You can laugh, compete, play, and banter—and the games can even help keep your parents sharp!
Try time-honored games like:
- Checkers
- Scrabble
- Chess
- Card games (Hearts or Rummy)
- Classic board games (Monopoly or Clue)
As you get used to playing together, you can make it more complicated. Try games like Risk or Settlers of Catan, or any game that requires strategizing and working together—or against each other—to keep things interesting!
Volunteer for a Worthy Cause
Giving back to the community together can be a rewarding experience. Volunteering not only helps others, but it can also give your parents a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
There’s always a worthy cause that could use some helping hands. Considering contacting:
- Local food banks
- Community cleanup events
- Retirement homes
- Animal shelters
- Libraries
- Schools
- Charitable events like fun runs or fundraisers
Talk with your parents to see if there’s a cause that resonates with them. This can make the entire experience more rewarding and meaningful for everyone involved.
Take a Day Trip
A change of scenery can do wonders for the spirit, especially if your parents have been cooped up for a while.
Delaware has some amazing destinations:
- The Everett Theatre, which offers movie viewings and live shows
- The Augustine State Wildlife Management Area, a conservation area that’s ideal for bird-watching
- The Middletown Historic Society
- The Back Creek Golf Course, with an on-site pub
- Silver Lake Park, a 100-acre area full of walking trails, catch-and-release fishing ponds, sports fields, and more!
The fresh air, new sights, and shared experiences are sure to make for a memorable day. And if you’re visiting in the fall, why not try out Frightland, a famous Halloween-themed haunted attraction?
Taking a Class
Learning something new together can be thrilling, and lets you pick up a new hobby or skill set. Whether it’s a cooking class, a painting workshop, a fitness class, or even yoga, joining a new class can open up new areas to learn and enjoy.
For example, at the Middletown Odessa Townsend Senior Center, seniors can learn about:
- Nutrition
- Line dancing
- Quilting
- Ceramic making
- Cooking
It also gives you an opportunity to gain a better insight into how your parents view the world and how they solve problems. You can work together to learn and bond over your new passion!
Schedule a Family Reunion
There’s nothing quite like a heartwarming family reunion to help reconnect your loved ones. Planning a special gathering with your loved one can provide your parents with something truly special to look forward to.
It’s an opportunity for the entire family to come together, share laughter, create new memories, and reminisce about the cherished moments of old times. These precious reunions can help strengthen the bonds between family members, making lasting connections that will be treasured for years.
Play Music Together
Music has a unique way of touching our souls. Whether singing along to their favorite tunes or dancing to a beloved old song, playing music together can evoke nostalgia and create beautiful moments. And music provides all kinds of benefits.
You don’t have to learn a new instrument and suddenly start studying sheet music together. Talk with your parents about your favorite songs and listen to theirs. Spend the time and listen to each other’s music and see what truly makes your loved one come alive. Maybe you can even go to a concert together!
Simply Spend Time Together
The most important thing is just being there. A simple chat over tea, watching a movie together, or even sitting quietly in each other’s company can make a meaningful impact.
Explore Ways to Engage at Meadowcrest at Middletown
These moments with your parents are precious, and our team at Meadowcrest at Middletown understands the value of connecting with your loved ones.
Book a tour today to see the nurturing environment we provide for each of our residents.
