Bridging the Gap: Fun Activities for Teens and Seniors

Senior Care in Hampton Bays NY

In many cases, it can be difficult for today’s teen and their grandparents or other senior loved ones to find activities to do together. This is especially true due to the device-addicted world that we live in today. This has made a huge impact on family time.

While it can be difficult to escape the call of modern technology – answering an email or watching television – it is necessary to reconnect with loved ones. In some cases, an elderly care provider can step in and help the teen and senior make time for one another. Some activities that may be fun for both parties are highlighted here.

Use technology together

Technology may need to be limited, but it is not all bad. In fact, teens can teach their grandparents a thing or two about communicating via text message, video chat or online chat. There is another benefit to giving them this knowledge – when the teen goes away to college, they will still be able to communicate with them.

Listen and share stories

Storytelling has become somewhat of a lost art. However, when seniors and teens share stories, they can both learn. This activity helps to cultivate creativity and even help the two connect with one another. These stories will let the teen know about some exciting times in the family’s history and ensure these moments are not forgotten.

Exercise together

Elderly care providers can encourage teens to be a workout buddy for their grandparents. Try to set dates to workout and encourage both parties to remain committed. It is very important for seniors to remain active and when teens participate as well, it can be fun and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Start a new hobby

Does grandma know how to cook gourmet meals? Does grandpa like making birdhouses or swings from wood? If so, this can be the perfect opportunity for a young person to learn a new activity or hobby. Regardless of how often this activity is done, it will provide bonding time for the senior and teen and let them create together. This can become a cherished time for both the teen and the senior.

Volunteer together

When seniors and teens volunteer it is good for them, as well as those who are being helped. There are quite a few volunteer programs that both teens and seniors can become passionate about and this can be an added benefit when the teen applies for college.

These cross-generational connections between seniors and teens is quite simple but one that needs to be nurtured and encouraged. It may seem like the pair do not have anything in common; however, once they begin to spend time together, they will quickly realize how much they can learn from one another. This will be beneficial for everyone involved and the elderly care provider can even help to cultivate these relationships further.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional senior care services in Hampton Bays, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.

Source
http://www.healthyalberta.com/632.htm

http://www-tc.pbs.org/inthemix/educators/lessons/bridgingtheyears_guide.pdf