There are so many fun intergenerational activities that seniors and their grandkids can enjoy together. If you have grandkids that will be visiting loved ones in a senior living community, it can be helpful to plan some activities for everyone to enjoy together. We have compiled a list of some of the best intergenerational activities for grandparents and their grandkids to enjoy to make some lasting memories together.
1. Board Games:
Games are some of the best ways to bridge the age gap - everyone loves playing games, whether they are young or young at heart. Consider board games like checkers, chess, monopoly, or other classics that grandparents and grandkids can enjoy.
2. Jigsaw Puzzles:
Like board games, puzzles are another great option for all ages. Puzzles are good for seniors as they are great brain boosters, and an easy way for everyone to get involved. The best part is, grandparents and grandkids can work together to complete the picture! You can even set it on a spare table and have the puzzle be an ongoing activity - you don’t have to finish it all in one go.
3. Coloring Books:
Adult coloring books are all the rage these days. Studies have shown that coloring can be a calming, almost meditative activity for adults and seniors - and of course it is popular with young kids too! Grandparents and grandkids alike can enjoy coloring together, whether you print off some pages, use an app to turn personal photos into coloring pages, or simply bring some kid and adult friendly coloring books. You can use crayons, colored pencils, watercolors, or markers - it’s up to you!
4. Crafts:
If coloring isn’t your thing, there are a wide variety of other crafts and art projects you and your grandkids could try together. Doing something hands-on is ideal for young ones to keep them occupied and engaged on visits. Pick something that is easy for people with less dexterity - whether that is little ones or old adults who may have stiff joints. Try painting, collaging, making festive decorations, or paper crafts. The possibilities are endless, and you and your grandkids will love making something special together - it’s also a great memento for you to have in your room, and for little ones to take home as a souvenir of their visit.
5. Scrap Books or Photo Albums:
Reminiscing and sharing stories of the past is a great way for older adults to share their history with younger generations. If you have family photo books, sharing these pictures and talking through memories can be a wonderful and meaningful experience for both grandparents and their grandkids. And if you want a way to share memories while keeping hands busy, opting for a scrapbooking activity is a great way to pair memory sharing with craft time. This activity is also a great way for grandkids to interact with seniors with dementia or memory loss - photos can spark old memories and help older adults and young kids bond with one another.
For more information on activities best suited for Memory Care residents, click here.
6. Reading:
If you are looking for something a little more low-key, reading can be a great option. Choose an age appropriate book (whether that is a picture book or chapter book) and read it together. If you have regular visits with your grandkids, reading one chapter each visit can be a great way to build anticipation each week, and have something fun to look forward to on every visit.
7. Nature Walks:
Getting outside for some fresh air is a great way to spend quality time together. Go for a walk around the community, and as a bonus, create a nature scavenger hunt out of it. Whether you are just walking and eye-spying different plants or animals, or you create a game for young ones to seek and find certain objects in nature, getting outdoors is a fun way to get some exercise and spend quality time as a family.
No matter what activity you choose, spending time with grandkids and little ones is a meaningful and powerful experience for seniors. There is so much that younger generations can learn from their grandparents, and so much joy that older adults get from spending time with kids. Try some of these fun activities, or create new experiences of your own. Bringing generations together is a great way for everyone to make memories and spend quality time together.
Families are welcome to enjoy a wide variety of our activities and events.
Check out our monthly newsletter, or reach out to your local community to see how you can get involved in your loved one’s community!
