It's important for seniors to create relationships and bonds in their community. Thanksgiving is a national holiday, so many locations offer events for people to gather together. Countless organizations, businesses, and the cities themselves will host Thanksgiving celebrations that let people interact and involve a light activity level.
This season is the time to take a holistic approach to their mental health. In fact, part of being happy includes some socializing. Take the time this season to introduce them to local organizations since the holidays are a good time to join a new group.
Volunteer at a Soup Kitchen
If your senior loved one is in good health, then see if they want to give back during the holidays. Many seniors volunteer during the holidays and help the less fortunate when they are able to do so. If seniors would like to help their community, then see if they would like to volunteer at a soup kitchen or other charitable event. After all, it's a season for gratitude! Seniors in their community may want to get mobile and help some of the local charities during the holidays. If they are not in good health, then see if they would like to attend a holiday Thanksgiving dinner sponsored by the local YMCA or other organizations.
Take Them to a Faith-Based Event
If a senior has been an active member of a religious community, then consider taking them to a faith-centered organization. Talk with them about religion and remember to take them to their respective holiday services. Remember that people often have a changing relationship with their faith throughout their lifetime. If they have not been active with a religious group yet would like to be, then these organizations often put on Thanksgiving events that are open to a larger community.
Attend Thanksgiving at the Senior Center
Seniors may not necessarily practice their religion, but would still benefit from organized activities in a public setting. For those who aren't interested in faith-based services (or are interested in both), then contact the local senior center in town. Many South Carolina senior centers or recreation centers offer public events, Thanksgiving dinners, and places to watch people do a Turkey Run.
See if the Local Towns are Hosting Thanksgiving Bingo
Many bingo halls have a special bingo session where seniors and people of all ages can play on a bingo-themed board. Thanksgiving bingo involves no meal preparation, decorating, or other activities. Taking a senior out for an outing that involves silliness can help them feel like part of their community. They could even win Bingo and get special Thanksgiving prizes!
Show Them a Thanksgiving Parade
This Thanksgiving, find a parade to watch with your senior client and watch the people participating in the parade. The local parade will involve people in good spirits and showcase a lot of the local schools, organizations, and businesses. When attending a parade with the senior, they will probably remember ones they have attended in the past and have warm memories. Just remember to take comfortable furniture and make sure they are warm enough.
About Us
Senior Helpers of Summerville enjoys helping seniors remain connected to their community. We have offices in Orangeburg, Ridgeville, Santee, St. Matthews, and Summerville where our caregivers interface with senior clients and the community.
Contact us for more information about getting a senior connected with their community.