Celebrating Grandparents Day with your Senior

September 7, 2014 is National Grandparents Day. This is a day to celebrate the grandparents in your life and let them know how much they are appreciated and loved. You can glean a lot from their wisdom and life experience. When it comes to celebrating, it is often the thought that counts. Here are some simple ways that you and your family can celebrate this year:

Have grandchildren make keepsakes. You don’t have to spend money on gifts that you don’t know whether they will need or use. Make a gift from the heart. Drawing a picture, singing a song, or giving them a memorable photograph can have a big impact. Grandparents can even teach their grandchildren how to make some of their favorite crafts from childhood.

Prepare a favorite meal. Cook up some of their favorite foods and have a family dinner. Getting grandparents involved can help to pass on traditions and family recipes. Many families have recipes that have been passed down through generations and hold special meaning. This can be a great time to both share and create memories.

Look through photo albums. Enjoy spending time listening to stories from the past and seeing pictures of grandparents in their younger years and with other family members and friends. Ask them about trips they went on, events they experienced, and other memorable times. Oftentimes they are glad to reminisce and reflect. This can also be a beneficial way to learn about family history.

Visit favorite places. Perhaps an old restaurant, park, home, or city holds special meaning to your grandparent. Find out if there is anywhere they would like to go, or plan a trip to somewhere you know they enjoy.

Take a family photo. What better time to update current family photo albums? Document your day together and the memories created. This will provide a wonderful keepsake and something to look back on in future years together.

Spend time together. Sometimes the best way to celebrate is simply by being together. Make it a point to limit distractions and focus on appreciating your grandparents. Show them how much they are loved and appreciated and that you value the time you are able to spend together. Ask questions about their life and tell them about yours. Catch up and build new memories while reflecting on old ones.

Make your grandparents feel special this year by putting thought and consideration into your celebration. Plan a day that they will remember, even if it is just sitting playing games and enjoying a meal together. It is the thought that counts and showing them that you care.