Easter Activities for Every Age

Whether you are religious or not, Easter is the perfect holiday to spend time with family and loved ones. With the Spring air, sunshine, and bright yellow daffodils symbolising new beginnings, this time of year is known for lifting spirits and increasing positivity amongst older people. That, coupled with the many fun Easter activities and traditions that can be enjoyed by all, this month is sure to give older people a spring in their step! Thinking beyond chocolate eggs, the selection of ideas below aims to connect generations and bring cheer all round. 

1.      Get crafting this Easter 

From decorating an Easter tree, to creating an Easter basket, making crafts is a fantastic way for the whole family to have fun this Easter holiday. Research reveals that older people who participate in art and creative outlets will less likely need to visit the doctor! Benefits of creative activities include improving your mood, enhancing motor skills, encouraging socialisation and they can even slow down the decline in brain function. In fact, studies have shown that those who participate in artistic activities specifically, are 73% less likely to have mild cognitive impairment, which leads to dementia. For inspiration on all things Easter bunnies, baskets, bunting and eggs, here are some cute ideas to get your creativity flowing. 

2.     Have a family Sunday lunch

One great way to bring loved ones together over Easter is by having a wholesome family Sunday lunch. Whether you like to keep it traditional with roast lamb, or prefer something different, what’s important is getting all generations around the table, sharing stories, laughing and having fun. With research revealing that approximately 1 in 5 seniors experience loneliness when they eat alone, a family lunch altogether could be highly beneficial for elderly relatives. You could even use some of your Easter crafts as decorations for an Easter-themed table display. 

3.     Plan or go on an Easter scavenger hunt

Participating in an Easter scavenger hunt is lots of fun which can be enjoyed by the whole family. If mobility is an issue, then the planning process can be just as enjoyable. The aim is to bring generations together and this activity is definitely one which will do just that. There could be prizes for those that complete the scavenger hunt successfully. Prize ideas could include a soft Easter-themed toy, gourmet chocolates, a potted plant, or a ceramic mug like this one from Emma Bridgewater. 

4.     Attend a Church service 

Gathering to celebrate Easter is meaningful for all and attending a special service at your local church is a great way to mark the occasion. It provides the opportunity for older people to dress in their Easter best and socialise with their loved ones and their local community. Socialising with others is known to have a positive impact on a person’s mental health and wellbeing. Not only this, but experts have proven that the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease is lower is adults who socialise. 

5.     Play Easter games 

Playing games such as Easter Bingo, Easter-inspired charades or doing an Easter-themed jigsaw puzzle, is a brilliant way to spend quality family time together. As the release of endorphins are triggered when playing board games, they can leave us feeling happier and more content. One study even found out that jigsaw puzzles could prevent chronic stress in adults, due to the regulation of distressing emotions. 

6.     Make and decorate Easter cookies 

Nothing beats the smell of sugar cookies in a warm oven, so this activity is sure to be a hit with all ages. Using different Easter-themed cookie cutters, eggs, bunnies, chicks and carrots can be made before popping into the oven to bake. After the cookies are taken out and have cooled, the decorating can begin! You can make your own pastel-coloured icing and get as creative as you wish. Here are some brilliant cookie-decorating ideas, to inspire you and your loved ones this Easter. 

Spending time with ones your love during the Easter holidays doesn’t need to cost the earth. It is about finding something that can be enjoyed by everybody. For many older people, Easter can be a lonely time, so including your elderly loved ones into your holiday plans, will not only make them feel loved and cared for, it will also bring a lot of warmth and happiness to everyone, leaving you all with memories to cherish forever.