At first, February 17th may seem just like any other day in the month. In case you didn’t know, it is also recognized as Random Act of Kindness Day. The idea behind this day is to make an effort to pay it forward. It doesn’t take much to make someone’s day and should act as inspiration to make time for others.
Keep reading for a few suggestions on random acts of kindness that will make seniors smile!
Bring them coffee
Sometimes, just sipping on a cup of Joe and having a good conversation is enough to make anyone’s day brighter! Especially in the winter months, a comforting latte or cappuccino is guaranteed to warm the spirits!
Send them a handwritten note
Seniors come from an era where handwritten letters and postcards were the norm. While it can be much easier to seamlessly send an email or make a call, the thoughtfulness behind writing out a nice note on beautiful stationery is worth the extra effort.
You don’t have to overthink it. Just by simply letting them know you are thinking of them is enough to make them feel appreciated. The best part is that anytime they want a reminder that they are cared about, all they have to do is read that note again. Because of this, it is bound to bring on a smile more than just the first read.
Play a board game together
Board games are a timeless way to have friendly competition and lots of laughter. With the number of games there are to choose from – Jenga, Life, Monopoly, and Sorry! to name a few, there’s certainly one that both you and a senior would have a good time with.
They have a specific one that they’ve always loved over the years, so inquire with them on which they like the best. Board games are more than just good fun, and have been proven to actually boost brain health! For seniors, this can be a helpful preventive against memory loss later on, and lower their risk of dementia by as much as 15 percent.
Bake cookies
Make a senior’s day a little bit sweeter by bringing them cookies or another baked treat! If you happen to know a recipe that they especially like or one they used to make themselves, they’ll be even more ecstatic you paid attention down to the detail of their personal favorites! Food and memories also tend to coincide with each other. You never know what a simple dish may help them reminisce. According to cognitive research, seniors with memory loss are likely to recall the smell and taste of foods that evoke emotional memories, and most importantly, happy ones.
If you are unsure of what recipe to make, here’s a list of some top choices. If you’re looking for something unique, try our very own Chef Norm’s apple pie cookies!
Listen to their life stories
This last tip should be the simplest and most important one. A lot of seniors just seek good company, and someone who will listen. Over time, they’ve gathered decades of experience and wisdom. You never know what you’ll hear!
Seniors have lived through revolutionizing eras of history, and the best way to learn from it, is to hear it from the ones who were there. Start with a list of a few thought-provoking questions, and sit back as they open up and share their answers with you.
Spread kindness each and every day
At The Kensington, we aim to present everyday with kindness. We have a deeply rooted promise to love and care for your family, as we do our very own. Each day is an opportunity to make someone smile, and is something all should strive for, and not just limit to February 17th.
Even the simplest acts of kindness to strangers and loved ones can make a difference. Saying hello, holding the door open, and asking how they’re doing is enough to let them know they are being thought of.
Our knowledgeable staff provides for residents in varying stages, whether it be assisted living or memory care, and is backed by compassion and a focus on safety and comfort. With a robust dining menu to entice the taste buds, and a beautiful environment surrounded with a like-home feel, The Kensington is a place to make the transition to a senior living community as comfortable as possible.
Give us a call today or schedule a visit if you’d like to find out for yourself how The Kensington sets ourselves apart.
Further Reading:
Memory loss is life changing for all involved. At The Kensington, we provide a state-of-the-art memory care program, a higher staff-to-resident ratio than industry standards, and more advanced care services. Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.
For additional resources regarding your loved one’s condition, please read on about our Memory Care, Alzheimer’s Care and Dementia Care.