​How Can You Show Love to Your Special Senior this February?

Flowers, candy and jewelry may have always been your go-to way to show loved ones that you were thinking of them on February 14, but many residents of senior residences don't have room for extra décor, avoid excess sugar and don't need yet another bracelet or tie clip. Here are five ways that you can still play Cupid. 

• Pick up a heart-shaped gift box, tin or basket and fill it up with individually-wrapped goodies. A small chocolate or bite-size granola cluster will be just right for a quick treat. Be aware of special dietary needs; choose sugar-free or low-sodium treats if necessary, and if they can't enjoy the goodies themselves, they will still get pleasure from having something to offer to the aides and others who visit.

 

• Choose a few heart-shaped frames for the latest pictures of the great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews. There are many simple ways that you can embellish the frames with the names of the youngsters, so that Great-Grandma or Uncle Bud can proudly show off their descendants. Not much wall- or shelf-space? Mini photo albums are a fun alternative.

 

• Send warm wishes with a bright red sweater or a soft pink sweatshirt. Fleece is easily washable and lightweight, perfect for a senior to have close at hand when the room gets a bit chilly. If your senior loved one is in isolation right now, something warm to wrap around their shoulders will remind them that you are thinking of them with love and hugs.

 

• Trace and cut out hearts from colored paper in the traditional shape of candy conversation hearts. Instead of the standard phrases, write family nicknames or special slogans that have meaning to you and your loved one. Consider fun ideas like "Hugs for Hank" or "Best Nana Ever" or "Miss U." String them together on a bright ribbon to make a banner or door sign for your senior's apartment.

 

• Many senior-living facilities have beauty shops, where residents can get their hair or nails done. Contact the residence and pay in advance for a special session for the one you love, which can lift their mood even when you can't be together. The Valentine surprise will be when the attendant says, "No charge!"

 
Whether you can personally visit the senior residence where your loved one lives or not, there are great ways to let them know that you are thinking of them. Think of some extra-special sweet ways to tell them that they are always in your heart.
 
Prairie Homestead
yvonne@prairiehomestead.org
prairiehomestead.org
1605 W. May Street
Wichita KS 67213
(316) 263-8264