Valentine's Day is for Everyone!

Kristina O'Brien • January 29, 2021

Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to show love and affection to family and

friends. It’s also a great opportunity to spend quality time with your older adult.

Bouquets of flowers, conversation hearts, plush teddy bears, X’s and O’s ...

Romance and confections are what Valentine’s Day is all about, right? Well, not

necessarily. While the holiday is often known as the exclusive domain of lovers, it

can also serve as a reminder to express love and appreciation to all the special

people in your life.

We encourage you to celebrate the day with your aging parent or loved one.

Whether they still live at home or are being cared for by others, there are ways to

make this holiday memorable and upbeat.

Everyone can celebrate Valentine’s Day! Here are some easy ideas on how to make

it special for that senior in your life.

Your presence is a present. Pay your loved one a visit and carve out enough time

in your day so you don’t spend it feeling rushed or harried. Brighten up their space

with fresh flowers or Valentine’s cards made by yourself (or your children!). A

creative, handmade gift can be more meaningful than something store-bought.

Savor the moment. It’s likely that your loved one has experienced a time or two in

which they longed for the days of preparing meals for others. Ask for a favorite

recipe (in advance!) and surprise them with it on Valentine’s Day. It’s been said that

the sense of taste can evoke a joyful memory and conjure the comforts of home.

Do something unexpected. Has your loved one been experiencing cabin fever this

winter? Plan a fun-filled outing (call it a “date” for fun!) Go to a bakery or coffee

shop, see a matinee movie, or head out to the local library.

Curate a care package. Live at a distance? Sending a care package will provide

warm greetings and let your loved one know they’re in your thoughts. Assemble a

basket that incorporates personal interests and hobbies, savory treats, and

handmade gifts and photos from family and friends. The best of all worlds.

Even seniors who have lost their spouse or partner should be celebrating

Valentine’s Day – it may be a sad reminder of their loss, but it is also a great

opportunity to reminisce about the love of their life and remember their happy

times together.

F. Scott Fitzgerald said it best: “There are all kinds of love in this world, but never

the same love twice.” There isn’t just one kind of love. Make this February 14th the

first footprint of a closer walk with the senior in your life.

Resources:

2020 Assisting Hands Home Care. http://www.njseniorcare.com/newsletter-

articles/9-ways-seniors-feel-special-valentines-day/

https://www.thegablesfamily.com 2021

https://preferhome.com/valentines-day-loving-care/ Jane W. Barton, MTS,

MASM, CSA On February 14, 2018, family caregiver, heart month, Valentine's Day

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As a seasoned educator with a background in special education Kristina brings a wealth of experience in understanding the unique needs and challenges of individuals requiring specialized care. Transitioning from the classroom to the realm of home care, she has embarked on a journey to broaden her knowledge and expertise in providing support and assistance to those in need. In her role, she is deeply committed to identifying the distinct needs of our clients by engaging with them in thoughtful and meaningful ways.

Kristina holds a Bachelors of Arts in Elementary Education and Special Education with a minor in Speech Pathology and Communication and Master's in Education, Literacy, and Communications

While the information provided in this blog is intended to be informative and helpful, it's important to consult with a qualified professional for personalized advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your health or specific medical conditions, don't hesitate to reach out to your physician or another trusted healthcare provider. Your health is important, and seeking professional guidance ensures you receive the best care tailored to your individual needs.