I’ve talked a lot about how clients can utilize our services during the holidays. As I’m watching the NFL playoffs, I’m realizing that I haven’t talked about sporting events before. This is going to be especially prescient this year because the Paris Summer Olympics will kick off this July. Sports are a great way to connect intergenerationally, and it’s often something older adults have enjoyed their whole lives. Depending on how old they are, they may have been watching sports on television most of or all of their lives. My dad is a young Baby Boomer and has fond memories of watching the New Orleans Saints with his dad back when Archie Manning was the quarterback. Just like everyone can be included in the holidays, we can include everyone in celebrations during the big game.
Relocate the Celebrations
Consider having the party at the older adult’s house, and either someone else can host it entirely or they can co-host with the older adult. It depends entirely on their level of ability. Like I’ve said before, you want to preserve an older adult’s independence as long as possible. While it may be logistically easier to hold the game party at their house, they don’t have to be shut out of hosting, especially if they’ve done it before and like it. And if they don’t want to host, they can still enjoy the game in the comfort of their own home.
Get Help Cleaning Up
Our caregivers do light housekeeping (vacuuming and sweeping, no scrubbing), and if you’d like them to help you do some cleaning to prepare, give us a call. Our priority is of course the client, but if they can’t clean, we’d love to see what we can do. We also encourage families of our clients to help if they can.
Potluck it!
Who doesn’t love a good potluck for the big game? One of the best things about big sporting events as opposed to holidays is that potlucks are a lot more normalized. Now, I’m not saying that nobody does holiday potlucks, but it’s pretty common in families for one person to cook most of the holiday meal. With the big game, you can spread out the cooking and snack responsibilities. This way, it’s easier on the client and their wallet while also giving them control to pick what they want to provide.
I hope you all are enjoying the NFL playoffs, if you want a part two to this one, let me know. Who are you rooting for and are you excited for the Olympics this year?
