Halloween isn’t just for kids! It’s a fun holiday for the young and young at heart. For this post, we have curated a list of Halloween activities that are not only fun but also suitable for everyone, regardless of age or ability. So put on your witches’ hats and get ready for a spooktacular Halloween!
1. Halloween Movie Night 🎬
How to: Choose a few classic Halloween movies like “Hocus Pocus,” “The Addams Family,” or even “Casper” for a lighter touch. Then pull out all your favorite movie snacks and cozy blankets, and settle in for some fun.
Bonus Tip: Include some fun and special snacks from your loved one’s past as a special surprise. Snowcaps and Goobers, anyone?
2. Pumpkin Painting 🎨
How to: Instead of the traditional pumpkin carving, why not try pumpkin painting? It’s easier on the hands and just as creative. Markers are another great option for this activity.
Safety Tip: Use non-toxic paints/markers and ensure that the workspace is easy to clean up and slip-resistant.
3. Costume Parade 🦸♀️
How to: Organize a small costume parade for your family and friends. Give out small prizes for categories like ‘Best Costume,’ ‘Most Creative,’ etc.
Safety Tip: Make sure costumes and shoes do not pose a fall risk. If your loved one has mobility challenges, get creative and incorporate assistive devices into the costume.
4. Spooky Bingo 👻
How to: Spice up your regular Bingo night by replacing numbers with Halloween-related words like ‘Ghost,’ ‘Witch,’ or ‘Candy.’
Bonus Tip: Creating the Halloween bingo cards is a great activity for the whole family!
5. Outdoor Scavenger Hunt 🍁
How to: Create a list of Halloween or fall-related items for participants to find. Think mini-pumpkins, a red leaf, a little stuffed black cat, or a piece of candy corn. Invite family and friends to have a spooky good time!
Mobility-friendly option: For those with mobility challenges, consider doing the scavenger hunt in teams.
6. Halloween-Themed Potluck 🍲
How to: Ask everyone to bring a dish, but with a twist—each dish should be Halloween-themed. Think mummy hot dogs, cookie fingers, or eyeball pasta.
Safety Tip: Make sure food items are clearly labeled to avoid allergic reactions or dietary restrictions.
7. Virtual Halloween Quiz 🧙♀️
How to: Host a virtual Halloween trivia night focused on Halloween history, famous horror movies, or spooky folklore.
Mobility-friendly option: This is a great activity for those who prefer to participate from the comfort of their home. Be sure that everyone is comfortable using FaceTime or Zoom. If not, a one-on-one tutorial is a great way to spend time with your loved one.
8. Storytelling Around a Bonfire 🔥
How to: There’s nothing better than a good old-fashioned spooky story. And chances are, your elder family members have some good ones! Gather around a bonfire and share spooky or funny Halloween stories.
A Fun Twist: Make up a story together while playing Pass the Pumpkin. The person holding the pumpkin adds a sentence to the story, then passes the pumpkin to the next person. Keep going until the story is finished. Fun and laughter guaranteed!
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Disclaimer: The content in this blog post is meant for general informational purposes and should not be considered professional advice. While we strive for accuracy, we recommend consulting experts for specific guidance. We are not responsible for any decisions made based on this information.
Author: Liz Craven
Liz Craven, co-publisher of Sage Aging ElderCare Guide with her husband Wes, combines personal experience and heartfelt dedication in her work. Their journey in eldercare began with a personal story—caring for Wes' grandmother, Mabel, who lived with Alzheimer's. This chapter in their lives not only highlighted the complexities of eldercare but also kindled a deep-seated passion to support others facing similar challenges. Since then, Liz and Wes have navigated caregiving three more times. These experiences have added layers of depth to their insights, allowing them to offer a blend of empathetic understanding and practical advice through the Sage Aging ElderCare Guide. Liz’s commitment to making eldercare more approachable and less daunting shines through in every piece of advice she offers, aiming to ease the caregiving journey for others.
