To feel loved is one of the most beautiful things in this world and our elders have always made sure we are well acquainted with this feeling.
They have kept us under the shade of their love, warmth and care. Growing up we realise that this love must be reciprocated. Instead of getting pushed to the sidelines, they deserve to feel special from all of their near and dear ones, every single one of their grandsons and granddaughters.
However, trying to think of ways to throw a party for an elderly relative could be one of the most mind-boggling tasks of them all. They belong to a different generation, and we are from a different age entirely.
So if you are looking for tips to plan and organize a party for one of your elderly relatives, here are some tips and ideas:
1. The Essentials
This includes every peripheral detail and the backend work. You have to pick a date which is suitable. If you are celebrating the birthday of your grandma or grandpa, or even an aunt, you can choose to have the party on the birthday. You can also choose to have a quiet personal ceremony on the birthday and a huge party on the following weekends so maximum number of people could attend.
You want to make this day memorable for them, so you must pick a venue that is private yet beautiful. You could even ask your relatives if they have any place in mind.
Make sure you send an invitation card and call each and every one of your relatives well in advance so that they can make the necessary arrangements to be present.
2. The Party
You could have a theme and decorate the venue with balloons and fliers personalized for the person for whom the party is planned for.
Make sure that the person you planned the party for feels special but not overwhelmed. Making them get involved in too many activities might take the fun out of the event for them.
You have to find the right balance between giving them the attention, making sure it doesn’t make them feel uncomfortable.
3. “Buddy” System
Let’s face it, parties could either be fantastic for someone, or it could be an absolute drag. Remember that this party is going to have people from different age groups and you have to make sure that nobody feels out of place.
People find it tough to open up to people and hence end up finding themselves a quiet corner and scrolling social media. Make the party livelier by having a buddy for each person so that everyone has someone to talk to. This would make people feel less awkward and encourage them to meet new people.
4. Stay On Your Toes
It is not necessary that the party is going to turn out exactly as you planned it in your head. The key to having a successful party for your elderly relative is to make sure you are flexible.
Talk to the guest of honour, make them feel comfortable and make adjustments accordingly. Old people are lovely but do not have so much energy so they might need breaks in between to relax.
5. The Food
A buffet is the best way to go when you’re planning a party for people belonging to different age brackets. It is much cheaper than an A La Carte menu and offers variety and flexibility to the guests. They can pick whatever they like and enjoy their time.
You can get a giant cake to share amongst everyone at the party. There are various companies like India Cakes who make custom made cakes for occasions like a party. You can select flavours you think would be best for your much-loved elderly person.
6. The Star Of The Party
Remember, the star of the party must remember this day as one of the most memorable days of their life. Pay special attention to the person you planned the entire event for.
Make sure someone is always with them in case they need help with anything. Plan the whole party according to their likes and dislikes.
For instance, if the person has trouble hearing, having people give long speeches might not be the best idea. It can make them feel excluded from the group. So be thoughtful!
7. The Team
While it may be a party to celebrate your Aunt or Grandparents, everyone should have fun. Make sure to involve all your cousins in the party planning committee so that everyone can have their say and help you out.
Don’t bite off more than you can chew, assign everyone some task so that everyone has a role to play. This would make the experience much better and easier to manage.
8. Photographs
Hiring a photographer might seem like an unnecessary investment, but it is one of those factors that could make the party a real success.
Having a dedicated person with a camera strolling around the venue, taking pictures of all of your relatives enjoying such a beautiful day would make so many wonderful memories that you can relish for the rest of your life.
9. Gifts
Prepare a list of gifting ideas because there are going to be a lot of relatives who would need advice. You can get them something custom-made such as a cap with their name on it or something handmade like a scrapbook with a lot of pictures that they will treasure forever. The elderly relatives are the real hidden treasure in our day to day life, and they should be celebrated.
The elders are the backbone of a family. We can never thank them enough for everything that they have done for us. All that we can do is just be grateful and make them feel loved. A party that you planned specifically for them is a great reminder of how important they are and how much you enjoy their presence. We hope that these tips help you to organise the most memorable party for your elderly relative.
