Looking for special ways to celebrate Father’s Day this year? Father’s Day is right around the corner, and at Vista Grande Villa, we know that the best gifts usually aren’t the most expensive ones. Your aging loved ones value time together more than anything. Here are a few ideas for creating special memories that your senior father – or grandfather, uncle, or friend – will love.
Conduct an interview
Sit down with your dad or grandpa and ask him questions about his life. You can make the interview a video or write down the responses and record them into a memory book with photos. Your dad will have fun reminiscing on memories from the past and you will have a special keepsake to treasure and pass down to your own children.
Start by asking him questions about his childhood, favorite memories, or special experiences. Here are some prompts to help spark the conversation:
- Share some of your favorite childhood memories.
- If you could travel back in time, what advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
- Tell me about the best trip you ever took and why.
- What accomplishment are you most proud of?
- Describe the best gift you have ever received.
- What is your wish for your children and/or grandchildren?
Look through old photos
Your dad and grandfather probably don’t have many photos saved digitally. Instead, their photos are likely stored in old albums. Take time to sit down with your dad and look through pictures from the past. This is a great way to spend quality time together while recalling old memories and sharing stories from long ago.
Rekindle a favorite hobby or activity
Did you and your dad or grandfather share a special hobby growing up? Father’s Day is a great time to revisit an activity or hobby that they love. Whether it’s watching football, fishing, or eating breakfast at their favorite diner, your dad will love spending quality time with you while getting out of the house and enjoying some of his favorite pastimes.
Plan a day out
If your dad is still active, plan an entire day doing some of his favorite things. Stroll through a museum, play a game of golf, catch a baseball game, or grab a treat at his favorite ice cream shop. Is your father a movie buff? Surprise him with a trip to the cinema.
If your dad has limited mobility, consider taking him for a drive. Take him to an old neighborhood where he or your family used to live. Drive to the school he attended. A leisurely drive in the car is a great way to take a trip down memory lane and encourage conversation with your father.
Bring the family to him
If your dad can’t get out and about, arrange a day to bring the whole family to him. Whether he lives at home or in a senior living community, dads and grandpas always appreciate visits from the special people in their lives. Share a meal together, bond over old stories, and be sure to tell him all the reasons you love and appreciate him.
There are many ways you can honor your dad or grandpa this Father’s Day. At Vista Grande Villa, we look forward to family visits on Father’s Day, and we encourage them year-round as well. All our senior living options – independent, assisted, and memory—are designed to foster family involvement and interaction with our residents. To learn more, contact VGV today.
