Games to play with grandparents in the garden
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Table of Contents
- Introduction to garden games for grandparents
- Benefits of playing with grandparents
- Types of garden games
- Physical games
- Mental games
- Other games
Introduction to garden games for grandparents
Playing with and caring for old people is something that many of us want to do, but don’t know how. It’s easy to over-think it, and not do anything at all. This article gives you some simple advice on how to care for old people.
Benefits of playing with grandparents
I have often seen people talking about how best to care for older people, whether it’s their parents or friends, and I think the answer is simple: just treat them like you would anyone else! I have been guilty of worrying too much about my parents and what they can and can’t manage, but after watching them for a while I’ve realised that the best thing is just to let them try anything they want to do, and see how they get on. As soon as you start wrapping someone in cotton wool, they’ll believe that they really are fragile and incapable of doing things.
Of course you need to be careful and watch out for them but it’s important that you don’t make it obvious. If you’re worried about someone falling over when walking along a path, then just walk next to them so you could catch them if needed, but don’t say anything or offer an arm unless they ask for it. If you’re worried about them burning themselves when making a cup of tea, then just loiter nearby and keep an eye out so you could help if needed – but don’t make it obvious that’s what you’re doing.
There’s a balance between looking after someone and making them feel incapable – do your best to stay on the right side of that line! You need to be even more careful with your words; if someone asks you for help because they think they can’t do something themselves, then try replying with “Yeah I can help with that” rather than “Yes of course I’ll help”.
The latter implies a sense of “obviously you can’t do it yourself”, whereas the former implies “I don’t mind helping at all” which is much nicer.
Types of garden games
Physical games
It is tempting not to invite older people out anywhere because we assume they won’t be able to manage it or enjoy it. Or perhaps we think they will be embarrassed if it turns out that they can’t manage it – these are valid concerns but we should let them decide! Try inviting them out somewhere, perhaps somewhere where there is a fair bit of walking involved, but make sure there are options for having a rest or sitting down.
If there’s a long path along some river or canal near you then that might be a good idea; choose somewhere where there are benches along the way so your friend/parent can stop for a rest if needed. Perhaps find somewhere where there’s a café half-way along the walk where you could stop for some lunch before turning round and heading back? Or maybe there’s a stately home or similar place near you where there are gardens or grounds that are nice to walk around?
You could always borrow/rent/buy/rustle-up-a wheel chair which would mean your friend/parent has the option of either walking or sitting down for part of the trip – this would give both of you peace-of-mind.
Mental games
A great way to look after someone is just by listening; another thing I have learned from experience is that older people almost always love talking about their past experiences. If they seem grumpy or unresponsive sometimes this is because nobody listens to them or shows any interest in their lives! Try asking questions like “What was school like in those days?” Or “What sort of things did kids do when your children were young?” Or maybe “Did your family go on holiday when you were little?” You may be surprised by what comes up!
Other games
I think it's mainly about giving older people some attention and making them feel valued again… let me know if you have any ideas!
Thank you for reading!
