Father’s Day: Ideas To Creatively Celebrate Your Aging Dad

As an adult child with aging parents, there is no way of knowing how much longer Mom and Dad will be around. Certain occasions, such as birthdays and holidays, serve as reminders to make the most of the time you have with them. Moms traditionally get treated like queens on Mother’s Day, while dads tend to be more of an afterthought, even on the one day set aside for them, Father’s Day.

This Father’s Day, consider doing something more than just getting him a card, a tie, a pair of slippers, his favorite cologne, or making a phone call. Instead, devote the entire day or part of the day to Dad. Everyone likes to feel appreciated. Dads, too.

Senior Fathers: Their Special Day

Adult children unable to be present with dear old Dad have more options for connecting remotely than ever before. They can plan ahead of time by setting Dad up with the latest remote devices and technology. If an adult child living far away has the means to do so, they might purchase a ticket for Dad to visit them.

If going to see Dad in person is not an issue, then spend one-on-one time doing what he enjoys or what the two of you enjoy doing together. Just the act of being in physical proximity can mean a great deal to both of you.

Turn Grandkids Loose on Grandad

If you are an adult child with children of your own, then arrange for Dad to have personal family time with his grandchildren. Nothing satisfies elders more than loving their grandkids and spending time with them. Look for opportunities for Dad to engage with them, such as having the grandkids visit him or treat him to a surprise. Maybe it is having a picnic or cookout, playing board games, binge watching favorite movies or TV shows, or just sharing stories. After all, research shows that good grandparent-grandchild relationships can help boost well-being across the generations.

Relive Fond Memories and Family Traditions With Dad

Another idea is for loved ones to record an interview with their family patriarch. Father’s Day may be an ideal time to do it, too. It can be a powerful way to celebrate Dad while he is still with you. And, it provides a record of his life in his own words that can be enjoyed by family for years to come.

If you feel ambitious, organize a reunion of your dad’s buddies from his job, social club, or military service, and invite their family members to join in saluting them.

Whatever the scenario or project, dads need validation even if they don’t admit it.

Make Intimate Moments With Dad This Father’s Day

In an ever more wired and dislocated world in which seniors can be isolated from friends and loved ones, interpersonal intimacy can be in short supply. A lack of emotional bonds can contribute to feelings of loneliness and depression. Making time for an older adult, especially a parent, shows you care. When a senior knows someone cares, whether an adult child or a professional caregiver, it can be a mood enhancer and self-esteem booster. Feeling loved and appreciated is a basic human need we never outgrow or can do without.

If Dad is OK with it, be sure to give an affectionate handshake, hug, and kiss, and say I love you. Even if he’s not comfortable with outward displays of affection, it is better to have that awkward exchange than to regret holding back.

Engage in Dad’s Favorite Activity or Pastime

Celebrating Dad can be as simple as making time for him without distractions or interruptions. If there is a favorite activity or pastime he is still able to participate in, then do it with him. Whether it is golf or another sport, a craft such as woodworking or gardening, a card game, a cookout, a movie, or a concert, make his passion your priority.

Is he a music or old movie lover? Curate a selection of his favorite music or movies from back in the day for his nostalgic listening or watching pleasure.

Moms are not the only ones who appreciate a deep tissue massage. So why not pamper Dad by treating him to one by a licensed masseuse to take all his stress away? Not all men may be open to it, but why not gift him with a complete spa session?

Fulfill a Bucket List Adventure

Perhaps Dad has a bucket list with a place he wants to visit. If he is a sports fan, he may dream of attending a Super Bowl, a World Series, an NBA Finals, a Final Four, the Olympic Games, or the Kentucky Derby. Is there an iconic sports stadium or arena he wants to see a game at? If he is into arts and entertainment, a visit to a Hollywood studio, being in the audience of a game show, taking in a Broadway show, or touring a world-class museum may be just the ticket.

Sightseeing at a national park, visiting an oceanside beach, going on an African photo safari, or visiting a wildlife preserve should appeal to the dad who is a nature lover.

Exploring in Your Own Backyard With Dad

Do not forget experiences right in your own backyard. If you know some places in Dad’s local area that hold special interest or meaning for him, then make sure to get him there if possible. Register for a walking, trolley, or bus tour that covers a particular district or a greatest hits list of landmarks.

Overcoming Obstacles and Mobility Issues With Dad

If experiencing some place in person is not possible, then take a virtual sample of the site via the internet.

If mobility or cognitive issues limit what Dad can do, search for senior-friendly or accessible indoor and outdoor activities.

If he cannot traverse a beach or hiking trail, drive him to an overlook to enjoy the scenic beauty of the setting sun, crashing waves, or snow-capped peaks from a comfortable vantage point. If you have memories of looking at the night sky together, then choose a clear night to gaze at the stars together.

Consider trying a scaled-down version of an activity. For example, if he can no longer play 18 holes of golf, try nine holes. If walking that far is still a problem, use an electric cart to navigate the course. Alternatively, there is always the driving range, practice greens, and even putt-putt courses to test skills.

Green thumb dads who cannot tend to a big garden anymore can still find satisfaction in small plots, even container gardens on a patio or balcony.

Father’s Day: Make It Memorable

The point is, do something memorable this Father’s Day, and for all those that follow, to show your appreciation for your dad. Even if your father is deceased, Father’s Day can be a time to commemorate their life at gravesites or in memorial services and tributes, private and public, to keep alive memories. What you do to show you care is only limited by your imagination.

About Right at Home

Right at Home can be your guide to help your older loved one live successfully at home, wherever home may be. Our services range from companion care and light housekeeping to personal care and assistance with Alzheimer’s/dementia, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. Our caregivers are passionate about helping clients and improving the quality of life for those they serve. For additional information, use our office locator to find the nearest office and ask for a FREE in-home consultation.