Planning Picnics that Bring Generations Together
August is National Picnic Month, and with good reason. There’s plenty of sunshine left in August, but the temperatures are usually a little more pleasant than they are in July. In addition, it’s the final month of summer, so it’s time to get in some warm weather fun while you still can. Your aging relative may remember picnics from their younger years. One great thing about picnics is that they bring families together, from the youngest members to the oldest. The trick to planning a successful family picnic that allows your aging relative to enjoy the day and interact with younger generations is to plan food and games that appeal to everyone.
Senior Care in Wilmette IL: Planning a Picnic
Planning the Food.
While planning the food, remember to keep in mind any dietary restrictions of the older adult, such as a low-salt diet or foods that are diabetes friendly. There are plenty of fun and delicious foods that will appeal to both old and young and work into special dietary needs. For example, rather than serving a sugary dessert if the senior has diabetes, consider offering fresh fruit or homemade popsicles made with fresh fruit.
Another thing to keep in mind is to prepare foods that won’t spoil easily. No one wants to end the day with a case of food poisoning! Some suggestions you could try are:
- Fresh vegetables or salads.
- Pasta salad made with oil and seasonings, not mayonnaise.
- Fresh fruit.
- Corn on the cob.
Games for Everyone.
When planning games and activities for the picnic, take into consideration the older adult’s abilities. If they have limited mobility, plan games like a beanbag toss that can be played sitting down. Some other good picnic games are:
- Croquet: You can purchase this classic game in the outdoor section of many superstores.
- Chin pass: A player holds an orange using their chin and neck, then passes it to the next person on the team who must take it using only their chin and neck. First team to get the orange to the end of the line wins.
- Scavenger Hunt: Make a list of items that might be found where you’re picnicking and see who can complete the list first. If you’re not sure what will be in the environment, consider bringing a few items to hide.
Special Considerations for Older Adults.
If your older family member is likely to need assistance during the picnic, a senior care provider can accompany them. Having a senior care provider join the festivities takes the pressure off of family caregivers, allowing them to enjoy the day without worry. A senior care provider can assist the older adult to get and eat a plate of food and help them to join in on games. In addition, a senior care provider can remind them when it is time to take medications, something that could be easily forgotten in all the fun.
If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in Wilmette, IL, contact the caring staff at Companion Services of America today at (847) 943-3786. Our home care service area includes Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Des Plaines, Skokie, Lake Forest, Wilmette and the surrounding areas.
Sources
https://www.bhg.com/health-family/reunions/activities/activities-games/
https://health.usnews.com/wellness/food/slideshows/10-picnic-foods-that-wont-spoil-in-warm-weather
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