May and June feature some highlights. Moms and dads in Oklahoma City and across the country are celebrated in a special way. Seniors especially often look forward to holidays and well, days that make them feel appreciated. Every new day is a day to be celebrated. But remembering the sacrifices they made as parents and giving them some extra attention and love is a wonderful way to show you how much you love and care about them. Here are some ideas for making them feel extra special this year.

Cards. Don’t have much time to spend with Dad on Father’s Day? It’s not difficult to grab a nice card while doing your grocery shopping. Write a heartfelt note and drop it in the mail – it’s as simple as that. They’ll be able to read your special message over and over and keep the card close by for all to see. If your loved one lives in a retirement community and receives assisted living or memory care, they will likely be excited to show off their card to caregivers and share about their wonderful son or daughter.

A visit. Visiting mom or dad can be very meaningful. Recently, it has become a bit of a challenge to visit those in a nursing home or assisted living care community due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Check in with your senior’s community hospitality services and follow any recommendations for keeping your loved one safe. This could mean wearing masks, visiting outdoors and of course washing hands often. Making the special effort to see a parent can mean the world to them. You can tell them in person how much they mean to you. For those struggling with memory loss conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer’s, it can be especially meaningful to keep connected in person and talk about the wonderful times you shared together in the past. Bring an album of pictures of a wonderful vacation you shared together, or fun family times. Reliving memories of good times and seeing photos of family members can spark some fun conversations. You might even bring a special little gift to keep reminding them of your love for them long after your visit is over. A box of chocolates, for example.

Special events. If your loved one lives in a senior home, ask for a schedule of community events and encourage mom or dad to participate. There may be a Mother’s Day tea or Father’s Day cookout. Community events are designed to help seniors socialize with their friends and often have games or activities appropriate for their particular season of life. Find out if family members are able to participate and join in to help celebrate. Seniors are often excited and proud to introduce family members to their friends!

Gifts. For some people, gifts are an important way to make them feel loved and appreciated. If you have a little time, shopping for a special gift can be very meaningful for a parent. You know your family member best, so try to think of something that would be extra special for them to enjoy. Some sparkly jewelry or good smelling perfume might be perfect for mom, or a nice watch for dad. Pack it up in a colorful wrapping paper, add a little note and send it off! Again, it can be helpful to notify caregivers of any packages or items you send to your loved one to ensure they will get it in time for their special day, especially if they need help opening a package or receiving a bouquet of flowers.

There are many ways to make a person feel loved. Even if you have a deep connection to mom or dad already and are there for them every day, letting them know how much they mean to you as a parent gives family the opportunity to celebrate Mother’s or Father’s Day in an extra special way. Getting to see family members is a highlight for many seniors. Still, if this isn’t possible, there are other ways to send rays of sunshine and joy to brighten up their day. And if you’ve forgotten the day, no need to worry. Send them a belated expression of love and appreciation anyway! It’s easy to show a little extra love and care for your loved one.