I feel happy to still have my loved ones with me, and summer always reminds me of our precious time together. Including elderly family members in summer activities is very rewarding, especially for grandparents who love spending time with their grandchildren.
Creating Special Memories Together
Here are some fun and thoughtful ways to share summer fun with elderly loved ones and make sure they feel cherished and included.
- Dining Al Fresco
Living on an island like Malta is perfect for dining outside! Pick a beach or a favourite spot that’s easy to get to. Bring some beach chairs, a cooler with refreshing drinks, and light snacks like our local treat, hobz biz-zejt. If you live in a village, enjoy the fireworks of local feasts and have a BBQ on the roof. Grandparents love seeing the family together, and it brings them so much joy!
- Evening Walks
Take your elderly loved ones for a gentle walk near the sea and admire the flora and fauna. Grandparents can share their knowledge about nature, making it a fun and educational experience for everyone. You can also enjoy ice cream on a bench while taking in the beautiful surroundings!
- Festivities
Summer is full of events from village feasts to outdoor concerts and artisanal markets. You can also explore museums, art galleries, and historical sites to learn about local culture. Look for events that everyone can enjoy, offering fun activities for both elderly and young family members.
- Beach Days
Plan a relaxing day at the beach or lido, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply read a book under an umbrella. Ensure everyone is protected from the sun by wearing hats, and sunglasses, and staying hydrated. Grandparents can demonstrate to their grandchildren the importance of staying active and taking care of themselves. Consider a boat tour with comfortable seating and accessible facilities for elderly passengers.
- Island Storytelling
Encourage grandparents to share stories from their childhood and life on the island, providing valuable insights and wisdom to their grandchildren.
- Local Support for Active Ageing
Also look out for Active Ageing Centres in our community that offer opportunities for elderlies to stay physically, mentally, and socially active. These centres provide a place where senior citizens can meet others their age and have fun with activities like talks, outings, games, and lifelong learning sessions.
Sharing summer fun with elderly loved ones, especially grandparents, can strengthen family bonds and create priceless memories. By including their interests and abilities in your plans, you make sure they feel valued and included, making this summer unforgettable for everyone.
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Christine Fava is an integrative coach at Willingness. She graduated from the University of Malta with an Honours degree in Psychology and is currently pursuing an ICF Diploma in Integrative Coaching. She is passionate about integrative coaching, believing it helps individuals achieve their personal and professional goals by addressing topics like confidence, relationships, time management, and stress management.
References
Active Ageing and Community Care. (2023). Active Ageing Centres. Retrieved from https://activeageing.gov.mt