Summer is a season of togetherness – family reunions, backyard barbecues, and multigenerational gatherings. Whether your loved one is living with adementia (such as Alzheimer’s), adapting to sensory changes (such as hearing loss), or navigating mobility limitations (such as using a wheelchair or walker), summer gatherings can still be joyful—with a bit of thoughtful planning.
At TheKey, we believe that everyone—regardless of age or ability—deserves to feel included, respected, and connected. With just a few thoughtful adjustments, you can create a gathering where your aging parent, grandparent, or partner is fully part of the celebration.
Before the Gathering: Plan with Purpose
Create a comfortable, accessible environment
- Designate a quiet area, or “retreat space,” where your loved one can take breaks if they become overstimulated or tired
- Ensure accessibility—consider temporary ramps, clear pathways, and comfortable seating with good back support
- Schedule gatherings during your loved one’s best time of day (often late morning or early afternoon for people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia
Consider Sensory Differences
- Limit background noise—consider soft music and avoid overlapping conversations.
- Choose natural lighting or warm ambient lighting to support those with vision changes.
- Use familiar scents (like herbs or baked goods) and soft textures to bring comfort and evoke memories.
Prepare younger family members
- Have age-appropriate conversations with children about what to expect
- Share simple explanations: “Grandma might ask the same question several times because her memory works differently now.”
- Suggest specific ways they can help: “Grandpa loves when you sit and look through old photos with him.”
During the Event: Foster Meaningful, Flexible Connection
Prioritize Emotional Connection
- Create structured activities that play to your loved one’s strengths—card games they’ve always enjoyed, looking at family photos, or simple cooking tasks
- Incorporate familiar favorites–a song the person loves, family photographs, or a favorite recipe–these can spark comfort and connection without requiring memory retrieval
- For loved ones with dementia, avoid testing questions like “Do you remember when… and instead use open-ended prompts”
Adapt traditions thoughtfully
- Modify favorite family games to accommodate cognitive or physical limitations–for example removing the time limit from a game
- Offer sensory-friendly activities like decorating cookies, container gardening, or water balloon tosses from seated positions
- Make space for storytelling–without putting anyone on the spot or correcting inaccuracies
Special Considerations for Common Conditions
For loved ones with dementia (including Alzheimer’s):
- Consider name tags with large print and relationships noted (“Susan - Jean’s Daughter”) in a warm, welcoming tone to gently orient without feeling infantilizing
- Keep gatherings smaller and shorter when possible
- Maintain routine elements like usual mealtimes and rest periods
- Focus on sensory experiences—familiar foods, music from their young adulthood, gentle touch
For loved ones with mobility or balance differences:
- Plan activities that don’t require standing for long periods
- Design for ease: ensure clear wide pathways, stable seating with arms, and access to a bathroom
- Consider portable grab bars, raised seating, and transfer support and also plenty of time to avoid rushing
- Position your loved one where they can observe and engage with multiple activities
The Balanced Care Method™
At TheKey, our proprietary Balanced Care Method™ recognizes that social connection is essential for healthy aging. When we design care plans for clients, we integrate strategies for meaningful social engagement—whether that’s facilitating family visits, helping with video calls, or supporting participation in community activities.
Our caregivers are trained to notice subtle cues that someone is becoming overwhelmed or fatigued during social gatherings, and they’re skilled at providing just the right level of support to help your loved one remain engaged without becoming overstimulated.
Need Additional Support This Summer?
If you’re planning a family gathering and would like professional support to help your loved one fully participate, TheKey can help. Our caregivers can:
- Provide one-on-one attention to your loved one during the event
- Assist with personal care needs discreetly
- Help with transportation to and from gatherings
- Support your loved one’s participation in family activities
Contact TheKey today to learn how our Care Team can help support your family.
