Valentine's Day is a special day for celebrating love and affection with loved ones. It is a day for expressing appreciation and gratitude for the people who matter the most in our lives. For the elderly, Valentine's Day can be an opportunity to remember and talk about special memories with their partners, get out and enjoy the day, and do something fun with their Live-in Carers!
At the same time, for elderly living alone Valentine's Day can be a challenging time as it is often portrayed as a day for couples. Some elderly people may feel lonely or left out on this day, and this can exacerbate feelings of isolation and depression.
Live-in Carers can play a big role in helping lonely elderly on Valentine's Day. Live-in Carers provide companionship care, they spend time with their Clients, engage in conversation and activities, and offer emotional support. They can help with planning, and organise special activities that their Clients may enjoy such as a picnic, a movie night, or a game of cards. Live-in Home Carers help their elderly Clients connect with others by arranging visits from friends or family, or helping them participate in community activities.
For elderly who may feel down or lonely on Valentine's Day, Live in Carers can offer words of encouragement and support, reminding them of their worth and the positive impact they have had on others!
Home Carers can create a positive and uplifting atmosphere by decorating their Client’s home for the Valentine’s Day, playing cheerful music, or cooking a special meal.
Together with their Live in Carers single elderly people can make Valentine’s Day special if they focus on self-care – take time to do things that make them feel good, such as reading a book, taking a bath (if able to with the help of their Carer), or going for a walk.
By organising a visit from friends, Live-in Carers can help their Clients celebrate friendship, and recognise and appreciate the important people in their life who are not romantic partners, such as close friends or family members.
Here are some activities that elderly people can enjoy on Valentine's Day with their Living in Carers:
Have a picnic in the garden - fill a basket with some tasty snacks, drinks (do not forget a blanket!), and head to your back garden for a relaxing picnic. Enjoying the fresh air, delightful snacks and a cup of their favourite tea will make this day extra special especially when surrounded by their companion!
Go for a walk - take a leisurely walk around your neighbourhood or a nearby park. The days are longer and warmer, and the birds are singing beautiful songs of coming spring. Going for a walk is a great way to get some exercise, enjoy the fresh air, and spend time reminiscing about times which made them smile.
Is it grey and wet outside? Have a movie day! Stay in and watch favourite old films. Make some popcorn, brew some tea, and snuggle up on the sofa for a cosy movie day.
Cook a special meal - make your favourite dinner or try something new and exciting, your Live-in Carer can help you!
Take a dance class - many community centres offer dance classes tailored for the elderly. Take a ballroom dance class and learn some new moves. If you do not have a partner, your Live-in Carer will be happy to join!
Visit a museum or art gallery - admire the artwork and learn about new things. Many museums cater for visitors with limited abilities. We prepared a list of 5 museums in the UK with the highest rating, and accessibility for those with limited mobility. Follow this link to view the list of these museums https://www.access-care.co.uk/post/top-5-museums-to-visit-in-the-uk.
Play games - spend the day playing games, whether it is board games, card games or puzzles, have fun and enjoy! Playing games is an excellent way to talk about what the elderly loved doing when they were younger. Did they play the same games? Which one was their favourite? These happy memories will bring joy and happiness!
Remember, Valentine's Day is just one day, and it is important to focus on the positive aspects of life and all the things to be grateful for, rather than getting caught up in feelings of loneliness or sadness. By providing companionship and support, Live-in Carers help elderly people who may be feeling lonely on Valentine's Day to feel more connected, appreciated, and valued.