A birthday is the most special day for a person. And, when it comes to a senior loved one, the day becomes more special as now is the time to let that person know how much they are appreciated and valued despite their old age.
So, here’s a list of ideas to help you better organize the birthday party of your senior loved one.
What Does the Elderly Want?
It’s true that sometimes you are happier in organizing and celebrating the birthday of someone else than your own. There’s no better feeling than helping, caring and making that special day more special for someone. However, you need to remember that birthdays aren’t just about what you want or how you want to celebrate it; it’s about what the birthday person wants and how they want to celebrate it. And, sometimes your idea of a special day could be the exact opposite of what the other person wishes for.
While you might be thinking of a great birthday party with outstanding decorations, the elderly might not want to celebrate his birthday at all. There are many people out there who doesn’t like celebrating their birthday for different reasons. For example, for some it might be due to their religion or religious denomination (for example, believers of Jehovah’s Witnesses) or simply because of their personality type (such as introverts who get easily and quickly tired from such social gatherings). Some do not like to celebrate their birthdays because they come at a very inconvenient time such as in the middle of the Christmas-New Year hubbub. And, for instance, I know my old grandma who doesn’t like to celebrate that special day because it makes her realize how older she is getting and that’s like bad news to her.
Even if it concerns an aging parent or a grandparent, it’s important to know what that person wants for their birthday.
Before organizing a birthday party, try to gather much information as possible.
- Do they like big family gatherings?
- Are they accustomed to being the center of attention?
- Do they like surprise parties?
If the older adult is quite shy, hesitant and doesn’t really like the extra attention and all the surprised that usually come with the day, I suggest considering the following alternatives:
- A small picnic at a beach or nature park
- A champagne luncheon with loved ones
- A small outdoor BBQ lunch
- A trip to a museum, art gallery or aquarium
- A high tea with family members, ex-colleagues and friends
Birthday Cards
I still remember the good old days when kids used to craft and customize their own cards for their parents. But, unfortunately, we don’t see that much today because you could easily buy a card in a shop or online. But, honestly, I think gifting handmade stuff – be it a gift or a card – is the best way to show your loved ones that you have taken the time to make them something special.
If you are not used to crafting cards, you could find some very quick and simple ways to make cards using fewer items on the net.
And, here are some examples of a heart-touching birthday message:
“Rejoice today as you have reached a great milestone in life. I want to thank you for all your support and encouragement and I wish you good health and happiness in life. Happy birthday!”
“I want to take your birthday as an opportunity to acknowledge your hard work and appreciate your support and encouragement. I wish you the best of everything because you deserve it, today and always. Congratulations, and many returns of the day!”
“Your experience and your support have both impacted my life positively so many time. So, I want to thank you for everything you did for me. May your special day be filled with all the good things that you deserve, and may all your wishes come true! Uncle, don’t forget to make a wish when you blow out the candles on your birthday cake.”
