The teenage years can be an awkward, vulnerable time that puts a strain on relationships with grandparents. Young children are eager to please, love learning new things, and have extra time for fun. As they become teenagers, they may prefer spending time with friends over family, which can make it difficult to connect. Finding fun activities that both teenagers and grandparents enjoy can strengthen their relationships.
1. Playing Video & Computer Games
Teenagers enjoy playing video and computer games, and many seniors are also joining in the fun of the gaming world. Gaming has been shown to have cognitive benefits for seniors. Playing games together as a team can build a bond and show your loved one is interested in his or her grandchildren’s interests. For seniors who live far away from their grandchildren, gaming can be a great way to spend time together virtually.
Playing video games with grandchildren or other seniors is a great way for your loved one to get social stimulation. If your loved one needs regular socialization, consider hiring a home caregiver. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of home care. Clearwater families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide individualized care plans to meet their elderly loved ones’ unique care needs. Our holistic Balanced Care Method was designed to help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and our Cognitive Therapeutics Method offers mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia.
2. Going to the Movies
Movies are a form of entertainment that bridges different generations. Choose a movie that both your loved one and the teenager will like, and encourage them to grab some popcorn and enjoy the show together. They can make a day of it by getting some dinner or lunch afterward. This will give them an opportunity to talk. If your loved one is unable to leave the home, create a home theater so the movie can be enjoyed in the comfort of the living room.
3. Taking a Trip Together
Whether it’s a day trip to a national park or a week-long outing to the beach, going on a short vacation together can give seniors and their teenage grandchildren the opportunity to get to know each other better. Take advantage of the summer break or a long weekend by arranging a trip everyone can enjoy together. Plan it well in advance so it doesn’t interfere with any previously made plans.
4. Finding a Shared Hobby
Photography, scrapbooking, cooking, chess, sewing, and fishing are hobbies many seniors and teenagers enjoy. Try to find a hobby they all enjoy and encourage them to participate in it together. Going to a trade show, attending a special seminar, or taking a class together can allow them to learn more about the hobby while spending time together.
If your loved one requires assistance with hobbies or daily activities, consider hiring a caregiver. There are many reasons seniors might need assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Home Care Assistance is a leading senior care provider. Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life.
5. Getting Some Exercise
Exercising benefits both teenagers and seniors. Find a sport or exercise they all enjoy, such as playing tennis, swimming, or hiking. Having companions to exercise with will make the time go by quickly and help everyone get a great workout.
6. Volunteering
Many high schools require volunteer hours to graduate, and volunteer experience also looks great on college and scholarship applications. Volunteering together will help teenagers succeed in school while they get to spend quality time with their grandparents. Check local websites for volunteer opportunities and pick one that can be enjoyed together.
Socializing with friends, grandchildren, and other family members is an important part of maintaining emotional health in the golden years. If your loved one requires more social stimulation in his or her life, consider hiring a caregiver. For families living in Clearwater, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home. Call us at (727) 330-7862 to learn more about our flexible and customizable senior care plans.