10 Ways to Brighten the Holidays for Seniors

The most meaningful gifts aren’t wrapped in paper. They’re wrapped in time, attention and the simple act of showing up. Whether you’re spending the holidays with aging parents, grandparents or other seniors, these 10 activities will help you create moments that matter – for them and for you.

1. Deck the halls

If you’re wondering how to include seniors in family holiday traditions, consider crafts. There’s something magical about making things with your hands.

Set up a welcoming space with ribbons, pinecones, felt and pre-cut shapes. Keep it simple. Paper snowflakes, homemade ornaments or natural wreaths work well. The goal isn’t perfection – it’s connection.

Choose materials that are easy to grip and manipulate. Large buttons and chunky ribbons work well for those with arthritis or limited dexterity.

2. Whip up a holiday favorite

One simple way to make the holidays special for seniors is to bake seasonal treats together. Choose a favorite family recipe or a beloved classic like sugar cookies, gingerbread or rugelach. The kitchen will fill with tempting aromas and familiar tastes and textures that can spark memories and meaningful conversations.

Let the older adult guide you, even if it's from a comfortable chair nearby. Mix the dough, share stories of holidays past and don’t worry if the cookies are lopsided. The real sweetness is in the time spent together, topped off with hot cocoa and generous taste-testing.

3. Once upon a time…

This is one of the easiest and most meaningful holiday activities to do with seniors. After all, older adults carry decades of experiences to share. Try a “holiday story hour,” where everyone shares a favorite childhood tradition or funny seasonal tale.

If possible, record the stories on your phone. Transcribe them later. This is family history, told in the voices of those who lived it. And for the storyteller, it’s a precious reminder of how much they matter to you.

4. Sing out loud

Cue the cheerful carols. Science confirms what we already know: Music reaches places words cannot. Even for those living with dementia, familiar melodies often unlock memories and emotions that seemed lost forever.

So, cue the cheerful carols and let the music work its magic. Create a playlist of holiday classics and invite family and friends to sing along.

5. Host a cozy movie night

No list of festive activities for older adults is complete without classic holiday movies. Gather soft blankets, dim the lights and get lost in beloved classics like It’s a Wonderful Life, White Christmas and Miracle on 34th Street. Choose films the older adult may have watched with their own children as they grew up. Add popcorn and hot cider, and you’ve created an experience that’s festive and comforting at the same time.

6. Take a holiday light tour

A slow drive through decorated neighborhoods is enchanting. Bring warm drinks, play soft carols and enjoy the sparkle of the season. For those who prefer to stay indoors, consider a virtual tour of holiday light displays from around the world.

7. Create handmade cards or gifts

In our digital age, a handmade card is a rare treasure. Plus, they’re easy crafts to do with seniors. Set up a card-making station with colorful paper, stickers, stamps and simple adornments. Seniors can write holiday messages, decorate envelopes or make small ornaments. These homemade items become heartfelt gifts that spread cheer.

8. Play holiday games

Laughter is medicine and games are the prescription. Good holiday games to play with older adults include bingo, trivia, seated charades or large-piece puzzles. Mix in prizes like candy canes, fuzzy socks or small ornaments for extra fun.

9. Spread seasonal kindness

Helping others provides a powerful sense of purpose. Invite seniors to participate in simple service projects: writing cards to hospital patients, creating small care packages for military members or those experiencing homelessness, or knitting items for shelters.

These activities remind us we all have something to offer, regardless of age or circumstance. The holidays become less about what we've lost and more about what we’re still able to give.

10. Make space for reflection and gratitude

The holidays are a good time to slow down and reflect. Encourage family members to share what they’re grateful for over warm cocoa. Reflection often brings peace, comfort and a deeper sense of connection during the busy season.

Make every day a Holiday.

At Holiday Senior Living, our residents enjoy engaging events each day, alongside the warm company of good neighbors.

Find a community near you and join us for an activity. See firsthand how much fun life can be.