Memorial Day Party for Seniors

Remember to honor not only those who actually served, but those wives, mothers and other family members left behind. They are often forgotten as the behind-the-scenes heroes of our military.

Whether you are taking your Memorial Day party to a senior center, a nursing home or care center or just a few elderly folks you know, the idea is the same. Family members for your seniors possibly served at different times and conditions were different for each decade. Memories of moving, doing without, and worry remain forever in their hearts.

Memorial Day Senior Party Suggestions:

1. Consider the lives of your seniors when planning.
Do they nap or have other afternoon obligations? If so, you could hold the party during later afternoon or mid-morning. Or maybe they'd enjoy the party so much, they'd skip their nap!

2. Most seniors enjoy music.
Take time to research music that was popular during their era. Do not play music too loud. Also, plan so that music doesn't interfere with other party activities. Perhaps a sing-a-long would work well. A song sheet could be handed out.

3. Use bright, patriotic colors for your Memorial Day Party theme.
They will immediately recognize the colors of the old red, white and blue.

4. Keep food simple and easy to eat.
Consider special diets, but serve food that is appealing and will taste good to them. A choice of small sandwiches, fruits and cookies would be a great beginning. Many love different types of jello salads and cheeses. A special decorated cake would be fun and very appropriate, also.

You may not serve alcoholic drinks, but sparkling water in pretty glasses would be fun. Perhaps they'd even like to make a toast or two. Remember this is their Memorial Day party and their day!

5. Plan entertainment.
You may want to include in the invitation that there will be a time to share a special story. If they recall something or some time that was very special to them, encourage sharing with others. If younger family members are present, they may have never heard those details of times gone by.

6. Small groups are best.
This can include a larger group, but divided into smaller tables so they can hear one another easily as they visit.

7. Draft some helpers.
Some may need help while others are just wanting to chat. If you have some helpers, each personality can truly enjoy their Memorial Day Party.

8. Give a keepsake.
Everyone loves to get a little gift. It could be a small flag, or some other patriotic piece. Or, flowers and food always work.

9. Remember to touch.
Many of them may have lost someone dear in their lives. A slight touch on the shoulder or arm means more than you can every know.

10. Be patient.
Your party may go off on a tangent that you never even dreamed. That's just fine. Be flexible. If your guests are enjoying their Memorial Day party, just smile and enjoy the day.

Note: If you'd like to plan and prepare a Memorial Day party for a place of senior residence, visit beforehand with those in charge and work with their suggestions and guidelines.