The festive season is a wonderful time to gather with family, create lasting memories, and celebrate together. It’s especially heartwarming to include elderly loved ones in the festivities, making them feel wanted, included and connected. Here are some fun and engaging activities for the few weeks leading up to Christmas itself that are perfect for the whole family, from the youngest to the oldest.

1. Get creative with arts and crafts
One of the best ways to bond during the festive season is by making something together. Arts and crafts are not only fun, but they also give everyone a chance to express their creativity. Plus, they’re perfect for all ages.
Ornament making: Whether it’s painting wooden ornaments or decorating plain baubles with glitter and glue, crafting your own tree decorations is a great activity. Even elderly family members can join in by helping design or apply the finishing touches.
Holiday cards: Handmade cards are a thoughtful gesture, and making them together can be a lot of fun. Set up a cozy space with markers, stamps, stickers, and festive paper. Your elderly loved ones can help by sharing some old-fashioned ideas for designs or writing special messages.

2. Cook and bake together
Cooking is a fantastic way to involve the whole family in festive traditions, especially when it comes to baking tasty treats. The smells and tastes of home-cooked meals or baked goods often evoke fond memories, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to pass down family recipes.
Baking cookies: From rolling the dough to decorating with icing and sprinkles, baking cookies is a hit with every generation. Your elderly relatives might have tips from their own baking days or be the perfect taste testers.
Christmas meal prep: Let everyone pitch in to help prepare the festive feast. Even those who may not be as mobile can peel vegetables, stir sauces, or simply offer advice. It’s a chance to share time together in the kitchen and swap cooking secrets.

3. Enjoy a festive film night
There’s nothing quite like cuddling up on the sofa with your family to watch those classics. Set up a cozy film night with blankets, popcorn, and hot chocolate, and pick movies that everyone will enjoy.
Classic Christmas films: For elderly loved ones, older holiday movies like It’s a Wonderful Life or White Christmas might bring back warm memories of their own childhoods. Mixing in newer films like Elf or Home Alone ensures there’s something for all generations.
Sing-Along movies: If you want to make the evening even more interactive, choose musicals like The Sound of Music or Mary Poppins. Everyone can join in for a sing-along session, creating a fun and lively atmosphere.

4. Pantomime and family performances
Pantomimes are traditional in many places and bring out the childlike joy in everyone. If you’re able to attend a local show, it can be a fantastic outing for the whole family, especially elderly relatives who enjoy live entertainment. The audience participation and humour of pantos are infectious.
DIY family panto: If you’re staying at home, why not put on your own family performance? You can act out a simple story or have a talent show where each family member shows off a skill (singing, dancing, telling jokes). Even your older family members might love narrating a story or helping with costumes and props.

5. Create a memory scrapbook
Christmas is also a great time to look back at family memories and create something that everyone can treasure. A family scrapbook is a wonderful way to do this, and it’s an activity that can be done together over several days.
Photos and stories: Collect old family photos and ask your elderly loved ones to share stories behind them. These stories can be written down or recorded to add to the scrapbook, preserving your family’s history. You can also include photos of current holiday activities, making it a project that spans both past and present.
Handwritten notes: Encourage everyone to write a personal note or draw a picture for the scrapbook. Grandparents and children alike can contribute, making it a family heirloom filled with love and creativity.

6. Sing carols and play music
Music is a wonderful way to bring the holiday spirit into your home. Singing carols together can be a lot of fun, even if you’re a little out of tune.
Carolling at home: If your elderly relatives aren’t able to go out carolling, bring the carolling to them! Gather the family and sing favourite songs together. You can create a cozy setting by the fireplace or tree, or even plan a mini concert for elderly family members who would love to sit back and enjoy.
Play instruments: If anyone in the family plays an instrument, this is the perfect time to show off your skills. Encourage everyone to join in, whether it’s with an instrument or just clapping along to the beat.

7. Take a wintery walk
If weather permits, going for a gentle walk is a lovely way to get fresh air and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. Bundle up warmly and take a stroll through your neighbourhood to admire the festive lights and decorations.
Outdoor adventure: This can be especially enjoyable for elderly family members who may appreciate the chance to stretch their legs and get outside. It’s a great opportunity to chat and share stories, and you might even spot some carollers or neighbours while you are out and about.
Wheelchair-friendly routes: If any family members use a wheelchair or have mobility concerns, plan your route accordingly to make sure it’s accessible for everyone. Even a short walk can be a refreshing and bonding experience.

Don’t forget -The most important part is spending time with loved ones, and by including elderly family members in festive activities, you can make them feel truly special. Whether it’s baking, crafting, watching movies, or simply singing together, these shared moments will create memories that last long into the New Year. So, gather your family, get creative, and enjoy all the warmth and joy the festive season has to offer.