The holiday season is upon us, and aging adults are no exception to the giving spirit of the season. But if you’re an older adult, your opportunities to give are limited by factors like mobility or whether or not you have children or grandchildren in your life that can serve as suitable recipients for your generosity. Fortunately, there are many creative ways to give back this holiday season, even if you don’t live near family members to share your generosity with. Here are some tips on how the elderly can give back this holiday season!
Get Cooking
Looking for a fun and creative way to give back? One option is to give cooking lessons. Cooking is an inexpensive and easy activity that can bring joy to those who need it most. If you’re struggling with where to begin, why not start with one of our famous recipes? You don’t have to be a professional chef—you only have to know how to put together a few delicious ingredients! Some great starters include turkey burgers and meatloaf. A nice side salad will also go a long way in terms of presentation and taste.
Pack Stockings for Those in Need
So many less fortunate people have so much to be thankful for. With your help, you can give those individuals a gift to remember and a smile that will last a lifetime. If you’re looking for a unique way to give back during this holiday season, consider putting together a pack full of valuable items, including food and other personal care items, and present it as your gift to those in need.
Donate to a Food Bank
The holidays can be hard for aging adults, especially those who live alone and struggle to pay bills. This year, donating to a food bank is an excellent way for the elderly to give back. Find out which local food banks accept donations and what they need most; these places will let you know if they need donations of holiday food baskets or non-perishable items like paper towels and cleaning supplies. Most major cities also have a special senior center that serves as a gathering spot for older people in need; one way to give back is by volunteering at your local care center; another is to donate money or gift cards (or buy them yourself) and hand them out to people you see struggling on your regular errands.
Participate in an Event
Aonther way the elderly can give back to their community is by participating in an event. During Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, or Easter, volunteering allows you to meet new people while helping others. Plus, it provides a sense of accomplishment knowing that your contribution made a difference. Many events are available, such as food drives, toy drives, and even local sports leagues for adults. Whatever event interests you, be sure to plan, so you have transportation to get there and know what time to arrive.
Cuddle with a Cat or Dog
Dogs and cats make excellent companions because they are loving, affectionate, and they provide a great distraction from physical and mental health issues. If you or a loved one is in a community that allows animals, take advantage of it during these holidays! Aging adults who have pets tend to live longer, healthier lives. And if you don’t have a dog or cat at home but know someone who does, see if they need help getting food or medication to their pet or cleaning up after them when they go out of town during the holidays. Helping others by giving their pets loving attention will make everyone happy—including your furry friends!
