Activity of the Week
Archive 2012
-
Make a Model
October 29, 2012
When you were a kid you probably made at least one model car or plane, but the selection of models is even better today. You can build the Eiffel tower, a robot that can walk, or a sailboat with working sails. Even someone with limited small-motor coordination can enjoy model making with minimum assistance...... Read more
1 Comment
-
Lampshade Art
October 22, 2012
Lampshades are a home staple, but they're also a canvas just waiting for your creativity. This project doesn't take much (if any) cash, but it does give you the opportunity to be artistic. You can cover a lampshade with fabric paints or pens, a favorite scarf or material, black-and-white photos, doilies or handkerchiefs, sea shells or sequins...... Read more
-
Whittling and Wood Carving
October 15, 2012
Whittling is something you may remember your grandfather enjoyed. He might have made you a small bird or a wolf's head, and he probably spent many contented hours with a piece of wood and pocketknife in hand.... Read more
-
Visiting Small Museums
October 08, 2012
When's the last time you did something for the first time? For many caregivers and those they care for, monotony and the endless stream of medical appointments threaten to sap the joy and energy out of any day. So why not strike out and find whatever interesting, odd, quirky, and zany museum is near you...... Read more
-
Ice Cream Social
October 01, 2012
I scream, you scream, what's better to eat than ice cream? Don't go out to buy a ten-dollar banana split when you can enjoy an ice cream social right at home. Whether indoor or out, whether you've got fancy bowls or paper ones, ice cream and toppings are delicious and easy...... Read more
-
Activity of the Week: Handprint Art
September 24, 2012
We’ve all made handprints, but what makes this special is to see the generations, the sizes, and to capture them in a way that’s permanent. ... Read more
-
Stones for Wise Words
September 17, 2012
Capture your families favorite quotes and stories in stone with this simple activity. ... Read more
-
How Do I Love You?
September 10, 2012
Celebrating a loved one's birthday doesn't necessarily mean you have to buy a gift, but it's important to show how much that person means to you -- and to others. One thoughtful way to celebrate is to focus on how many years he or she has been around and use this as a catalyst for all sorts of thoughtful...... Read more
-
Thoughtful Downsizing
September 03, 2012
Downsizing can kick up all kinds of feelings: To many older adults, it can feel like they have to let go of parts of themselves and their lives. It can also feel freeing. It matters how you approach it. Thoughtful downsizing means creating an atmosphere where items can be cherished, shared, and even told good-bye in a way that brings closure and comfort...... Read more
-
Historical Tours
August 27, 2012
Ghost tours, historical home tours, small-town history tours, lighthouse tours, and historical reenactments are great ways to lure your loved one out of the house. Most tours have minimal fees, take less than an hour, and can be customized for an older adult's needs.... Read more
-
S'more Cookies
August 20, 2012
Most of us go camping just for the s'mores, but why not make them at home? This easy, yummy treat is perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up that comes in a bite-size treat.... Read more
-
Take a Virtual Vacation
August 13, 2012
Can't get seem to get away? Sometimes life makes hopping on a plane or booking a two-week holiday a bit of a challenge, but that doesn't mean you can't plan a virtual vacation. Enjoy the foods, tour the sites, and even dance to the music -- right in your own home.... Read more
-
Volunteer at Your Local Polling Place
August 08, 2012
Elections are always right around the corner, and there are lots of opportunities to help out. Even if you don't belong to a particular party, you might want to support your local polling place. It's close to home and keeps you connected to what's going on in your own community...... Read more
-
Make Your Own Fragrant Body Butter
August 06, 2012
Maybe your mom loves the smell of roses, or your dad likes lemon. Making your own body butter means you get to put in the scents you appreciate most. You don't need to start from scratch. Essential oils that you purchase from your local health-food store can be added to inexpensive lotions and salves...... Read more
-
Toilet Paper Roll Art
July 30, 2012
You'll never believe what this is made of . . . toilet paper rolls! We all have them, and most of us throw those cardboard centers away. Why not save them and turn them into wall art or a mobile? You can also enlist older family members to help assemble this easy and impressive art project.... Read more
-
Start a Bottle Collection
July 23, 2012
Did you know that people who enjoy collecting suffer less from depression? Starting a bottle collection -- including everything from antique medicinal glass bottles to wine bottles -- can be the beginning of a great hobby or just a fun way to spruce up a blah corner.... Read more
-
Chalk Paint a Wall
July 16, 2012
Do you have a crazy-busy life with lots of appointments, deadlines, and lists? Why not chalkboard a wall, so you can see all you do all at once? Chalk paint comes in lots of colors, and it's perfect for a child's room or a kitchen or bathroom wall. That way, when you run out of toilet paper or coffee cream, anyone in the house can go write it on the wall...... Read more
-
Quote Board
July 09, 2012
Does your mom or dad (or another family member) have a million great sayings? Why not capture a favorite quote and display it? What's great about your own quote board is that you're passing down family wisdom (and humor) that your entire family will treasure for years to come.... Read more
-
Gratitude Tree
July 02, 2012
Enjoy quality time with your loved one: Bring nature inside, and let the benefits blossom.... Read more
-
Fishbowl Air Freshener
June 26, 2012
If you have trouble keeping a goldfish alive, why not fake out your family and friends with a faux goldfish bowl that’s also an air freshener.... Read more
-
Organize a Care Items Swap
June 18, 2012
Do you have a walker you're no longer using? Or a bed rail or cane? If your older loved one attends an adult daycare group, Sunday School class, or a bridge or book club, ask around and find out what items folks are no longer using. Then either swap them or donate them to a local eldercare group.... Read more
-
Family Trivia
June 11, 2012
Do you know who was president the year you were born? Which celebrity shares your birthday? What famous person is from your hometown? Start a family trivia collection titled "The Year I Was Born." Using your favorite search engine, asking others in your family, or even visiting your hometown can yield...... Read more
-
Home Documentation
June 04, 2012
If your home is struck by a disaster, how will you know what you've lost? Find out about home documentation and why you should do it -- today.... Read more
-
Airfield Picnic
May 28, 2012
Need some Dad-time? Why not plan an airfield picnic? Pack some goodies and head out to your local/smaller airfield to watch the planes take off and land. It's a super way to get out of the house and enjoy the weather, without spending a dime.... Read more
-
Write Your Memoir
May 21, 2012
Have you ever thought of writing a memoir? Does the task of writing an entire book seem daunting? It doesn't have to be. A memoir simply means "memory." It isn't as much about writing your autobiography -- from birth on -- as it is about capturing moments...... Read more
-
Stamped Thank-You and Thinking-of-You Cards
May 14, 2012
As delightful as it is to receive a card in the mail, it's just as satisfying to send one. Saying thank you to the nurse who took extra time with you on your last doctor's visit or sending a "Just thinking of you" card to a high school buddy can brighten the recipient's day...... Read more
-
Watch Deconstruction
May 07, 2012
Chances are, you've inherited a watch, and it's probably not working. You keep meaning to get it fixed, but why not let your dad or another male loved one deconstruct it and turn it into a necklace or bracelet? Watch "innards" are all the rage in the art world. Gears and mechanisms aren't just functional; they're also beautiful...... Read more
-
Storytelling
April 30, 2012
Family storytelling is as fun today as it ever was, and it's an easy way to capture memories and preserve a legacy. Stories need listeners, and creating a welcoming time and atmosphere is worth the effort. Use the story "sparks" below to help you and your family discover tales of love, adventure, triumph, and challenges that make for wonderful storytelling...... Read more
-
Memory Books
April 23, 2012
Memory books provide an easy and touching way to remember loved ones. Less busy than a traditional photo or scrapbook, a memory book can bring comfort to those who have dementia or other memory impairment, can be used as a prayer book, or can simply be a way to remember those we love.... Read more
-
Couponing
April 16, 2012
It seems that everyone is trying to find ways to stretch a dollar, making couponing hipper than ever. You might feel that you don't always have the time or concentration it takes to search for coupons, so why not ask your loved one to help out? We all need to feel needed, and your loved one might enjoy the challenge (and reward) that comes with couponing...... Read more
-
Antiquing With Mom
April 09, 2012
Want to make your mother's eyes light up? Suggest that the two of you spend an hour or two antiquing. Most communities have antique stores, and it's not as much about what you buy as it is about strolling down the aisles, remembering once-familiar items, and perhaps finding that one special trinket you want to take home...... Read more
-
Car Shows With Dad
April 02, 2012
Most men enjoy cars. That's why a car show is a great activity to enjoy with your dad (or husband, or any guy). Car shows take place all over the country, ranging from a gathering of local car enthusiasts to high-end shows. It's a great way to spend a few hours.... Read more
-
Reading Aloud
March 26, 2012
Reading out loud to your loved one is a wonderful way to pass time while providing an easy, mini cognitive workout (for both of you!). Choose a favorite classic, poetry, inspirational readings, or even the day's newspaper.... Read more
-
The Sunday Drive
March 19, 2012
Sunday afternoons have their own rhythm. They're great times to take a nap, gather with family and friends, or take a Sunday drive. Remember when you and your family used to pile into the car and just drive? For many older adults, it's a good time to get out of the house and enjoy a bit of scenery. A Sunday drive doesn't have to have a destination...... Read more
-
Checkers and Tiddlywinks
March 12, 2012
When was the last time you played checkers or jacks -- or tiddlywinks? It's still fun -- and you already know how to play. Classic toys have made a comeback. And they're a great way to connect with children and grandchildren. Who says toys and games are just for the young? They're for the young at heart...... Read more
-
Dancing to the Oldies
March 05, 2012
Nothing can change your mood faster than music. Dancing raises your heart rate, helps with balance, exercises your muscles, burns calories (for those of us who need a little help), and is a great mood pick-me-up. Put on the oldies, and watch your loved one perk up.... Read more
-
Brownies in a Jar
February 27, 2012
Need an inexpensive but thoughtful gift? Brownies in a jar are perfect. They're easy to assemble for all ages and physical abilities. Just don't give them all away -- you'll want to keep a few for your pantry.... Read more
-
Nature Journals
February 20, 2012
You don't have to leave your house or yard to enjoy a little bit of nature. Whether you live in the city or on a farm, one terrific ongoing activity is keeping a nature log. What birds migrate through your area in the fall? Do you have hummingbirds? Do you know what flowers in your yard they prefer? Did you see a red fox early one morning...... Read more
-
Easy-Knot Fleece Lap Blanket
February 13, 2012
Want a simple project you can make together? Try an easy-knot lap blanket. If you can tie a knot, you can make this colorful and cozy throw. It encourages small-motor skills and can be completed in just a couple of hours. And there's nothing like that feeling of "I made it myself!"... Read more
-
Birthday Cards for a Year
February 06, 2012
Sending cards is a good way to stay in touch with family and friends near and far. Creating a card caddy can help you stay organized and not forget anyone -- and it makes a satisfying project for you and your loved one.... Read more
