5 Fun Winter Activities For Families With Senior Members

It’s an undeniable fact: The winters are long and cold in Winnipeg. And while the seasonal blues can affect people of all ages, seniors are especially susceptible to isolation, inactivity, and poor mental health throughout the winter months.

According to Statistics Canada, about 30% of Canadian seniors are at risk of becoming socially isolated, and those numbers are exacerbated by winter’s prohibitively cold temperatures, less accessible services, and increased risk of falling–a major concern for elderly individuals.

The good news is that there are many ways to mitigate winter’s risks and challenges, no matter your age. In fact, finding opportunities for social, physical, and intellectual engagement throughout the winter months is a key aspect of supporting seniors in Winnipeg.

So, if your family includes senior members, read on to discover some simple and inclusive options for making everyone feel a little warmer and fuzzier this winter season:

1. Embrace the Cold (Safely)

If you live in Winnipeg, you know that getting outdoors in winter can sometimes feel overwhelming. With senior family members, there is even more to consider. But spending a little time outdoors each week is truly refreshing for the body and spirit; you just have to be smart about it.

First of all, choose days when the wind chill is not a billion below zero. Remember, you can always be selective and opt for other activities if the weather isn’t cooperating.

Dress warmly in layers, and be sure that senior family members are helped to put on warm socks, hats, and mittens. Pay special attention to footwear, and be sure to consider options such as non-slip shoe grips for icy conditions.

If you’re going for a walk, select a well-maintained path and have a family member walk ahead to verify there are no slippery patches. Walking poles (often available with snow basket tips) can be another great option for enhancing stability. Remember, you don’t have to walk far. The point is to have an enjoyable winter experience together.

If a walk is not realistic for the senior(s) in your life, consider bundling them on a cozy wheelchair excursion, or–if you’re really brave–perhaps a gentle sleigh ride could bring a smile to their face. You might also consider indoor walking options at locations like malls or gyms.

2. Make a Bonfire

Bonfires tend to be most popular in summer, but they can be pretty fantastic in the winter too! Invite family members of all ages to bundle up for marshmallows, homemade bannock, and/or cocoa, and tell some stories while you’re at it. Singalong anyone?

Younger family members can tend to the fire while elders sit comfortably and contribute in other ways.

3. Enjoy a Scenic Drive Day or Night

With all the holiday lights in winter, taking a drive after dusk can be a delightful family experience. Pay for a lighted attraction or design your own free adventure. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Taking a scenic drive during the daytime can also be a rewarding way to experience the glittering snow or, on certain days, hoarfrost. Drive along the river or past special places that connect to your senior’s personal history (e.g., old homes and meaningful landmarks), or just pass slowly through some city parks.

4. Visit an Indoor/Outdoor Attraction

Heading out for a multi-generational excursion? Consider attractions that include both indoor and outdoor components. That way, everyone can create a safe and suitable experience for themselves…plus, there’s always somewhere to warm up. Attractions like nature centres, skating ponds, and the zoo are perfect possibilities. Take a family vote on where to head and get ready to explore.

5. Cozy Up Together

Sometimes in winter, you just want to cozy up together. Plan a regular board game night, watch a movie, get crafty, or cook some favourite family recipes. Gentle stretching or yoga can go a long way to getting everyone’s blood flowing in winter. Not to mention, you could also visit a heated pool or spa together.

Another fun way to spice up the winter months with seniors is with technology. Show them how to scan and digitize old photos, help them video chat with faraway loved ones, or record them telling stories from their childhood. With a smartphone in hand, the sky's the limit.

Looking for something more? Plan a family getaway. It doesn’t have to be a tropical destination (though it certainly could be). But a night together at a winter retreat or cabin would also be fun!

Senior Support at Home

Even with all the ideas in this post, winter still poses a long and challenging period for many Winnipeg seniors. And that’s why Right At Home Winnipeg is available to help.

As a leading home care company in Winnipeg, our dedicated staff members can be there for the senior(s) you love, even when you can’t be. If you’re looking to better support a senior member of your family this coming winter, give us a call today.

Why Right at Home?

• Over 20 years of experience. Right at Home has been providing award winning customized senior care and home care for over 20 years.
• YOUR Caregivers are all part of YOUR Care Team. This means that there is no revolving door of Personal Support Workers and Nurses. With the help of your Care Planner, you choose and get to know them. This leads to an level of care for your loved one that is unsurpassed in our industry.
• Working with government support. Your Care Planner will work to help you find the government supports you are eligible for (if you would like them) and then work to find a solution for the care needs that go above what government and family can do. We will also work around the government care plan so that we are enhancing it.

We help in home, wherever home is to you.

Our Caregivers are always out in the community visiting homes, Retirement Residences, Long Term Care (LTC), hospices and hospitals.