Written by Anna Bullough

Father’s Day is around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to honor and celebrate the amazing dads and father figures in our lives. As our fathers grow older, it becomes even more important to cherish the moments we have together and create lasting memories. 

These activities are sure to make this Father’s Day truly special. Whether your dad enjoys going out or prefers staying in, we’ve got you covered with plenty of heartwarming options. Let’s dive in and make this Father’s Day memorable.

Activities for Going Out

1. Visit Museums or Sightseeing Spots: 

Discover the arts and culture by visiting local museums, photography exhibits, or well-known sightseeing spots, immersing yourselves in the beauty of art and scenic views.

2. Enjoy a Game of Mini Golf or Golf: 

Challenge your dad to a game of mini golf or regular golf for some friendly competition and outdoor fun.

3. Outdoor Games and Activities: 

Set up a backyard gathering with fun outdoor games like cornhole, horseshoes, lawn bowling, bocce ball, or lawn darts to enjoy quality time together.

4. Enjoy a Restaurant Meal or Picnic: 

Treat your dad to a relaxed meal at his favorite restaurant or plan a picnic or BBQ at a local park to savor delicious food in a pleasant outdoor setting.

5. Attend a Car Show: 

If your dad has a passion for cars, attend a local car show showcasing classic cars, muscle cars, or any type that revs his engine, making it a day filled with automotive enthusiasm.

6. Take a Nature Walk: 

Explore the beauty of nature by taking a leisurely walk in a local park, along an easy hiking trail, or through the neighborhood, enjoying the fresh air and serene surroundings.

7. Live Sports Game: 

Surprise a sports fan dad by taking him to watch a live game, whether it’s a local team or a national event, creating lasting memories of cheering and excitement.

8. Pamper Him with a Massage or Grooming Session: 

Treat your dad to a relaxing massage or an old-fashioned professional shave and haircut, providing him with a rejuvenating experience.

9. Stroll through a Shopping Center: 

Spend quality time with your dad by leisurely strolling through a shopping center, chatting, people-watching, and even doing a little shopping, then grab some lunch while you’re out.

10. Enjoy a Game of Bowling: 

Spend a delightful afternoon with your senior dad and the grandkids at the bowling alley. Bowling is a fun and easy indoor activity that guarantees laughter and friendly competition.

11. Go Fishing at a State Park: 

Plan a relaxing day at a nearby state park where you and your dad can enjoy fishing on the dock. State parks offer beautiful outdoor settings and excellent fishing opportunities. 

12. Organize a Guys’ Day Out: 

If your father has nearby friends, arrange a special outing for them to spend quality time together. Chaperone the event, allowing your dad to reconnect with old friends and create new memories.

13. Recreate Past Moments: 

Recall a specific memory from the past and recreate it in a way that suits both your older ages. This can involve activities like hiking, camping, picnicking at a favorite spot, attending a concert, or engaging in discussions on shared interests.

Activities for Staying Home

14. Share Stories and Memories: 

Create a heartfelt Father’s Day experience by encouraging your dad to share stories from his youth, such as adventures, first car, or first love. Sit back, listen attentively, and record the conversation (with his permission) to preserve these precious memories.

15. Explore Museums Online: 

Immerse yourselves in the arts, history, or sports by taking virtual tours of museums. Spend quality time together while learning fascinating facts and discussing the exhibits, all without leaving the house.

16. Beer Tasting at Home: 

Treat your dad to a beer-tasting experience in the comfort of your own home. Stop by your local breweries, select a variety of brews to sample, and then savor the flavors while enjoying each other’s company.

17. Movie Night with Classic Films: 

Create a cozy movie night by renting classic films that your dad loves. Settle into comfortable chairs, prepare some popcorn, and indulge in timeless movies together, relishing the captivating stories and iconic performances. If he’s up for an outing, the movie theater is a great option as well.

18. Embrace Technology: 

Help your dad navigate the digital world by teaching him how to use a smartphone or tablet. Introduce him to social media platforms like Facebook and Skype, enabling him to connect with loved ones and reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.

19. Sports Watching with Tasty Snacks: 

Settle in for a cozy time at home, watching your dad’s favorite sports on TV while indulging in delicious snacks.

20. Relaxed Get-Together: 

Plan a relaxed get-together with family and friends, whether it’s a potluck meal or a backyard BBQ, creating a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere.

21. Engage in Board Games, Card Games, or Puzzles: 

Set aside time to sit down with your dad and play board games or cards that you both cherished from your childhood. Make it a special occasion by providing drinks and snacks, and consider inviting his friends for a classic poker night. Or spend quality time together by working on puzzles, fostering mental stimulation and enjoyable interaction.

22. Bring Home Takeout from Dad’s Favorite Restaurant: 

Surprise your dad by bringing home a delicious takeout meal from his favorite restaurant, allowing him to savor the flavors in the comfort of home.

23. Read Aloud from a Book: 

Choose a book of your dad’s choice and engage in a heartwarming activity of reading aloud, taking turns if desired, creating a relaxing and immersive experience.

Whether you decide to go out or stay in, these activities offer meaningful ways to celebrate Father’s Day and strengthen the bond with your senior dad. Choose the option that fits your dad’s mobility and personality preferences and enjoy creating lasting memories together.

Tips for Making Father’s Day Special for an Elderly Parent:

• Take Advantage of Accessibility Options: Explore public venues that offer early entry and prime seating for individuals with limited mobility, such as zoos, museums, concerts, and sports games. 
• Embrace Ordinary Moments: Consider your father’s energy levels and plan activities accordingly. Keep it simple and just enjoy time together.
• Adapt His Passions: Identify past hobbies or interests your father had to give up due to limited mobility. Find adapted versions of those activities, such as watching shows about woodworking or working on a woodworking kit together. If he enjoyed fishing, consider a visit to an aquarium or purchasing an aquarium for his enjoyment.
• Rekindle Warm Memories: When celebrating Father’s Day with a dad who has cognitive impairment, instead of asking if he remembers certain events, prompt him to share stories about his past by using phrases like “Tell me about…” Focus on sensory experiences, such as watching old movies, visiting favorite restaurants, or looking through old photos together. This is a gentle way to enjoy what he does remember instead of highlighting what he doesn’t remember.
• Create a Memory Collage: If you can’t be physically present with your father, create a collage of favorite family moments using photographs. Label each photo with names and descriptions of the activities, and consider framing the collage for a meaningful gift.
• Focus on Quality Time: Prioritize spending genuine, quality time with your father. Let him decide the level of celebration he prefers, whether it’s short visits, sharing memories through cards, or engaging in meaningful conversations.
• Embrace the Power of Touch: Understand that some senior men may have difficulty expressing emotions, but physical touch, like hugs, can have a profound impact on the human spirit. Respect your father’s boundaries while recognizing the potential significance of simple gestures of affection.

Caring for Elderly Fathers on Father’s Day with In-home Senior Care

Father’s Day is a special occasion to honor and celebrate the fathers in our lives. As our fathers age, it becomes crucial to ensure their well-being and show them the care they deserve.

At Suzy’s Senior Services, we understand the unique challenges of caring for aging fathers. Our dedicated team provides in-home care services designed to support and assist fathers in their daily lives. From medication management to personal care and companionship, we offer a range of services delivered with compassion and professionalism.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or concerned about caring for your father, let Suzy’s Senior Services lend a helping hand. Our experienced caregivers are here to provide the support and care your father needs, allowing you to cherish quality time and create lasting memories together.

This Father’s Day, prioritize your father’s well-being and reach out to Suzy’s Senior Services. Contact us today at 801-540-2077 to learn more about how we can assist you in caring for your beloved father. Together, let’s make this Father’s Day a memorable and meaningful celebration of his love and legacy.

Suzy’s Seniors has been a total blessing to my wife and me.

“Her gal is like a daughter to us and helps with anything Kae wants done: fixing lunch, dressing her, doing her nails, listening as a best friend to both of us, taking my wife to the store, therapy with her sprained hand and arm, making beautiful arrangements, warm hugs — anything we need. Thank God there is such a wonderful organization.”

– Kae & Earl Manning

For at-home services for seniors near Davis County, call us at 801-540-2077 to learn more.