Birthdays are such a special occasion, offering a chance to celebrate the life of our friends, family, or loved ones. Pre-COVID, birthday celebrations often involved large parties with guests from near and far. Even as the pandemic wanes, it can be challenging to gather safely with the continued threat of COVID-19 and its variants. No matter the circumstances, you can still celebrate the birthday of a loved one in style with a little creativity.
Reasons for Celebrating Birthdays When Everyone Can't Be Present
Celebrating birthdays is a tradition that has been around for centuries, and it's something many people look forward to each year. Whether you are celebrating someone else's birthday or your own, the act of celebration amplifies appreciation for this special day. Celebrations foster a sense of connectedness with our family and friends - not just in terms of physical presence but also in expressing our love from afar through acts of kindness and thoughtfulness. These are the top reasons to make an effort to celebrate, even if you can't be together.
- Keeping the tradition alive
- Showing appreciation
- Maintaining connections
Creative Ways to Celebrate Birthdays When Everyone Can't Be Present
Likely, you don't need a reason to celebrate the life of a loved one. Instead, you're probably wondering how to capture the essence of a great birthday celebration at a time when everyone is concerned about putting the health of their loved one's at risk. Here are just a few ways to celebrate when you can't be there in person.
Virtual Parties
The best thing about virtual parties is that anyone can join in on the celebration. Host a birthday party via Zoom, Google Meet, or any other video-conferencing platform and make it as fun and interactive as possible. Have everyone dress up for the occasion, decorate Zoom backgrounds, play some music, and stream it into the "room" to set a festive mood, play games like charades, and catch up with loved ones who live far away. You can also go so far as to book a virtual event and turn the party into a cocktail tasting, escape room, or murder mystery party.
Connecting via Gifts
Though sending a birthday gift isn't exactly a new tradition, technology has lent itself to the creation of gifts that allow us to feel connected, even when separated by long distances. Long-distance friendship lamps offer long-distance connection because a simple touch sends a signal to the other device, instantly letting your loved one know you're thinking of them. Digital picture frames like the Skylight Frame are another excellent way to strengthen your connection by showcasing treasured memories and sending brand-new ones directly via email.
Video Calls
Video calls can provide an alternative means for gathering people together virtually. Even if it's a simple one-to-one conversation and a rendition of "Happy Birthday," video calls are the quickest and easiest way to see family members and loved ones who cannot be present in person. Sharing a laugh and seeing the love on another's face make video calls via Facetime or WhatsApp a special and effective way to stay connected.
Senior Helpers of South Shore, MA
Birthday celebrations should be cherished, and the best gift we can give to our loved ones is knowing how much they are appreciated. No matter if an in-person event isn't possible or practical, there are many ways to creatively celebrate birthdays when everyone can't be present. If you need more ideas geared toward your senior relatives, call on Senior Helpers of South Shore, MA. We service Brockton, Marshfield, Bridgewater, Quincy, Braintree, Randolph, and the surrounding areas, offering in-home care when you can't be there.