Every September, we dedicate a special day to celebrate the love, wisdom, and nurturing nature of our beloved grandparents. They play a crucial role in our family dynamics, providing a bridge to our past and a guide to our future. Grandparents Day is more than just a day of acknowledgment—it's a heartfelt celebration of the unique relationship we share with these special members of our family.
It's not always possible to physically gather and celebrate this day, but that doesn't mean we can't make Grandparents Day special. We just need to adapt and innovate by transitioning our celebrations into the virtual world.
Creative Ways to Celebrate Grandparents Day Virtually
So how can we create a memorable Grandparents Day celebration online?
Host a Virtual Party
Organizing an online event can be done via various platforms like Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime. Start with a theme that your grandparents would enjoy and plan from there. In fact, it could be a virtual tea party or a singing session with the family's favorite songs. With enough advance planning, you can send everyone party favors or fun costume accessories to enhance everyone's feeling of being involved, despite the distance.
Share Digital Photo Albums
A fantastic way to celebrate the day could be to create an online photo album. It could consist of old photographs with a sprinkle of new ones, capturing special occasions, milestones, as well as heartwarming moments. Platforms like Google Photos make it easy to compile and share these memories.
Play Games Online
Lastly, your grandparent doesn't need an Xbox or PlayStation to play games online with their family. In addition to console games, there are computer games that allow you to play together (and against one another) on PC or Mac. From virtual board games to interstellar adventures, there's something for everyone. After all, what better way to bond than a bit of friendly competition?
How Grandparents Can Set Up the Necessary Technology
Now, the key to these virtual celebrations lies in the technology setup.
Video Calls
For video calls, start with downloading the agreed-upon platform's app on a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Some platforms you can use include:
Help your grandparents sign up as well as guide them on how to accept invites and join calls.
Digital Photo Sharing
For digital photo sharing, platforms like Google Photos, Amazon Photos, and Flickr are fairly intuitive. You can upload the photos, create an album, and share the link with your grandparents. If they have access to the account, they can also share photos from "their end".
Online Games
There are also many apps and platforms for playing games online together. Choose games that are easy for seniors to learn, and that have controls or key commands that are compatible with their dexterity and mobility. Remember, the aim is to engage and interact, not to confuse and frustrate.
Let Senior Helpers Keep You Connected
In a time when we can't be physically present with our grandparents, these virtual celebrations offer a wonderful way to affirm our love and appreciation for them. It helps to keep the family united, and the traditions ongoing. By incorporating some of these ideas, you can ensure that your Grandparents Day remains a special day filled with joy, warmth, and most importantly, family.
If your senior loved one lives in New City, Spring Valley, Nanuet, or anywhere in Orange or Rockland Counties, they might appreciate a little help with day-to-day tasks. From personal care to mastering online connectivity, Senior Helpers Rockland and South Orange Counties are here for you.
Contact us today to learn what our in-home caregivers can do to enhance your favorite senior's independent lifestyle.