Happy February! With Valentine’s Day being this month, it’s led me to think of ways to help the older individuals in my life melt away any winter blues they may be having – with a little extra love and warmth from my heart to theirs. I encourage you to do the same for those in your life who may need a little extra pick-me-up! Let’s spread the love this month with random acts of kindness. Here are some ideas I’ve brainstormed:
Cooking or Baking: You know the famous saying – the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach! Why not whip up some disposable pans of your favorite pasta or fire off some of your famous chocolate chip cookies? A special treat like that (along with a full belly) is sure to put a smile on anyone’s face.
Spoil Their Pets: In this age of quarantines and social distancing, pets hold a special place in all our lives. Personally, I know my grandmother’s dogs are like children to her. As a mother myself, nothing makes me happier than seeing someone show my child love and affection. This makes a perfect opportunity to spread a random act of kindness. Try giving their fur babies some extra love with some new goodies (toys, treats, a new collar, outfits), a trip to the groomers or a good ol’ scrub in the tub! Or simply a walk around the neighborhood.
Valentine’s Day Cards: They aren’t just for kids! If you don’t live close – but still want to spread some love – don’t forget the tried-and-true “pen and paper and snail mail” method. If you have kids, let them get in on the fun by drawing their own cards as well! Who doesn’t love something handmade and from the heart?
Acts of Service: A simple act of service could mean more to a person than you realize. Offer your time and effort to something like cleaning their gutters, shoveling snow or doing simple household chores.
There are so many special older adults in our lives who have given so much of their time and love to others. Let’s pay some of that back to them by spreading simple acts of kindness this month – and beyond!
Ashley Wicker is a community and broker liaison at Reid Health Alliance Medicare. Born and raised in Fayette County, she’s a devoted mother who enjoys the outdoors, cooking and the arts.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!