Christmas activities often draw on festive traditions that bring comfort, familiarity, and joy. At Wisteria Care, we want to help the people we support rekindle fond memories of past Christmases while ensuring their home environment feels just as festive, fun, and uplifting today. With that in mind, here are 20 Christmas activities for the elderly.
1. Christmas crafting corner
Create a small craft area at home where carers, family and friends can make Christmas tree ornaments or handmade greeting cards. This hands-on activity encourages creativity and brings the holiday spirit into any living space.
2. Cookie-decorating workshop
Nothing says Christmas like the smell of freshly baked treats. Whether you’re baking a small batch together or decorating pre-made cookies with icing and edible festive sprinkles, this activity is high on our list of Christmas activities for the elderly.
3. Festive films
Plan a movie afternoon with classic Christmas favourites such as It’s a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street, or Home Alone. Add warm blankets, hot chocolate, and popcorn for a homely festive cinema experience.
4. Christmas carol singalong
Christmas activities for the elderly are often about recalling precious memories and what better way to do that than a homely seasonal singalong. Play favourite Christmas tunes, use a karaoke playlist, or invite family and friends around for a joyful singalong, a warm drink and mince pies.
5. Christmas Bingo
Give traditional Bingo a festive twist by using Christmas words or images instead of numbers. It’s simple, engaging, and ideal for a relaxed afternoon activity. This is one of our favourite Christmas activities for the elderly that spans all generations.
6. Christmas decorations
Helping someone decorate their home for Christmas can be incredibly meaningful. Our carers are only too happy to help put up a Christmas tree, arrange festive ornaments, or add seasonal touches around living space to create a warm, cheerful atmosphere.
7. Gingerbread house making
For keen bakers, gingerbread house making is chance to show off your festive baking and decorating skills. Buy a gingerbread house kit or moulds to make this a fun and achievable activity.
8. Festive photo booth
Create a mini photo booth at home with props like Santa hats, tinsel, and reindeer ears. Snap a few festive pictures to share with family or display in the home. This is a great way to have fun with grandchildren and so it definitely deserves a spot on our list of Christmas activities for the elderly.
9. Seasonal stories
Set aside a quiet moment for Christmas storytelling. Read classic festive tales aloud, listen to audiobooks or podcasts, or revisit old family stories that bring back warm memories.
10. Wreath making
Make a Christmas wreath using faux foliage, ribbons, and simple frames. The end result is a lovely festive decoration for any front door or hallway.
11. Candle-making workshop
For the creatives amongst us, candle-making is a fantastic Christmas activity for the elderly. Use easy-to-assemble candle-making kits to create homemade gifts or decorations. Choose festive scents for an extra seasonal touch.
12. Christmas quiz
A fun Christmas quiz is a great way to spark conversation and reminisce about past festive traditions. It’s enjoyable, social, and mentally stimulating – one of those Christmas activities for the elderly that’s not to be missed!
13. Secret Santa
Organise a simple Secret Santa exchange between carers, elderly individuals and family members. Set a small budget to keep it manageable and meaningful.
14. Winter walks
Fresh air does wonders for wellbeing. When safe and appropriate, enjoy a short stroll together to admire winter scenery, Christmas lights, or seasonal window displays.
15. Christmas market
Of course, choosing Christmas activities for the elderly partly depends on mobility and health issues. If mobility allows head to a local Christmas market for festive sights, smells, and treats. For those unable to go out, help with Christmas present ideas and browse artisan products on the internet.
16. Christmas light tour
Enjoy a drive or short walk to see local Christmas lights. Alternatively, watch a virtual Christmas light display together with warm drinks in hand.
17. Choir performance
If outings are possible, attend a carol performance or organise for local carol singers to stop by for a doorstep concert. Alternatively, enjoy a streamed choir concert online (either live or pre-recorded).
18. Hot chocolate bar
A pop-up hot chocolate bar is a great Christmas activity for the elderly living in care homes, but you can also do this for those elderly individuals still living at home, who are supported with their care needs. Set up a cosy hot chocolate station with marshmallows, cream, and sprinkles and maybe a dash of Baileys or Whisky to warm up on a chilly December day.
19. Live music
Play recordings of Christmas classics or put on a mini concert at home with carers or family members who enjoy singing or playing an instrument. Music is a great way to feel joyful and connected to those around you!
20. Christmas jumper get together
Host a small Christmas jumper celebration to kick off the festive season. Put on Christmas jumpers, enjoy party snacks, play a few games and share memories from Christmases past.