Encouraging Connections Among Family Members of All Ages
Ways to Engage Loved Ones Around a Shared Activity
Many families are fortunate to have members of multiple generations living close together. As the baby boomer generation reaches retirement age, according to the United States Census Bureau, one in five Americans will be 65 or older by 2030. This means more families will be seeking intergenerational activities that every family member can enjoy. Fostering connections between loved ones young and old is so important and can reap many rewards for all family members. However, you may struggle to think of and plan activities that everyone can participate in safely.
We have compiled a list to get you started. But before we dive in, remember this: Quality is so much more valuable than quantity. These activities do not have to be elaborate or expensive. The goal is for family members to safely enjoy time together.
- Prepare a meal. Family members can take on different roles based on their mobility and interests, from selecting the recipe to shopping for ingredients and cooking—and everyone can enjoy sitting down for dinner together.
- Visit a local museum. The Cleveland Museum of Art’s regular exhibitions are always free to the public, and the museum is committed to accessibility. There’s also the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland Museum of Natural History, and Children’s Museum of Cleveland.
- Volunteer together. Find a local organization that you feel called to support as a family. For example, bring the family to a local food pantry to sort canned goods or prepare meals to be delivered to families in need.
- Plant a garden. Gather at a loved one’s home for a day of gardening and planting. Family members can work together to plan and sketch out the garden, shop for seeds and plants, and execute the planting. Tending the garden is also a great way to spend time together in the future.
- Play a game. From cards to board games, there’s no shortage of options. Bring out an old childhood favorite game or teach the youngest family members how to play checkers. Everyone can sit around the table together.
- Talk about your family history. Consider working on a family tree project and having younger family members interview older family members about their life experiences. This is such a worthwhile conversation to have and capture for future generations.
- Go out for ice cream. Who doesn’t enjoy visiting their local ice cream stand in Northeast Ohio? Just be sure your destination will allow any loved ones with mobility challenges to get safely in and out of the car.
Do you have other ideas? We’d love to hear from you. If you would like more information about the PACE program for you or your loved one, please reach out with questions.