February 17th, just another date on the calendar, but also a day to help inspire. In case you didn’t know, this date is also known as Random Act of Kindness Day. The idea behind this is to use this day to pay it forward and make someone’s day better. The hope is that this will allow people to remember that kindness is easy to spread, and should be done so each and every day.
We don’t always see the impact of something small. Making someone’s day doesn’t have to be from anything major, and it’s the little things that we can do that in turn can have a bigger effect than we realize.
For seniors, there are several ways you can make them smile. Read on to see a list of a few ideas!
Bring fresh cut flowers
A colorful arrangement is enough to make anyone smile! Especially during the colder months, an array of lively florals will certainly bring a bit of light to help shake the winter blues. The fresh scent improves any room – but also has proven effects on mood.
Lavender is known to reduce stress and even mitigate the intensity or headaches or nerve tension. Oriental lilies not only have aromatherapeutic benefits, but contain a compound called linalool, which has a positive effect on stress.
Be a modern day penpal
Whether it be electronically through email, or better yet – a personal handwritten note – keeping in contact with a new penpal or your senior loved one is one of the easiest ways you can devote compassion to someone. Be a friend, keep in touch with them, and share your stories as well as find out theirs!
Sending a postcard during a trip is something that’s become more old school these days, but seniors are from a generation where it was typical. The thoughtfulness of sending well wishes in written form is truly timeless. It not only shows a greater effort but allows them to reread a nice message whenever they like.
Paint together
Painting is fun, messy, and a great way for anyone to let their creativity run loose! Bring a set of watercolors or acrylics, some paper, and put on a good music playlist to help get ideas flowing.
We tend to get so distracted in our busy daily lives, but painting is one of the many activities that allow us to stop and focus on something other than our surroundings. Not only does it boost mood, but it is also shown to boost brain health in seniors.
For those that suffer from memory loss, it also can serve as a form of communication when difficult by other means. The capability of expression is clear in the form of colors, textures, and patterns. Art therapy is one of the many ways of enriching lives, and we are very proud to offer it along with an assortment of other life enrichment activities.
Bring the kids and host storytime
Seniors and little ones alike enjoy being read to, so hosting a storytelling session is a great way to engage generations. Hand select a few books about adventure, humor, or anything in between. Better yet, maybe have a senior do the telling.
With a lifetime of memories and wisdom, there’s bound to be a tale or two that they would love to share. Prepare a list of questions to start the conversation and sit back as they unfold years of life experience. One of the best gifts of kindness you can offer someone, is to just listen.
Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea
The warmth of a good cup of Joe is just what some of us need during the colder months, or when we just need to unwind. Bringing coffee from a quality shop is a great gesture for someone who normally doesn’t treat themselves. Try a latte or cappuccino from our very own Famille Cafe!
The importance of sharing kindness every day
Although February 17th is a day to put a stamp to it, kindness is really something of nature that should be strived for each and everyday. At The Kensington, our team is made up of those who promise to love and care for your family as we do our own. Care is partnered with compassion and expertise.
For varying levels of care, we include two neighborhoods apart from assisted living that specializes in the different stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia. If your loved one is in need of help, let us be your partners in memory care. Give us a call today to find out more and see what makes us different.
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.
Additional Recommended Reading:
- Senior Moments, or Signs of Deeper Memory Loss?
- The Importance of Showing Love
- Bringing Generations Together Fades Ageism
- There’s No Better Time to Tour Assisted Living Than the New Year
- The Importance of Maintaining Traditions with Seniors
- How to Preserve Independence in Assisted Living
- Meet Me at the Memory Cafe