Father’s Day is coming up on Sun, June 20. If you’re the caregiver for an aging father, you have spent decades celebrating Father’s Day with your dad and might be looking for some new ways to celebrate the day. You might also be excitedly looking forward to celebrating Father’s Day this year after last year’s inability for many to gather for family celebrations. So, whether it’s just you and Dad or whether you’re planning something for the entire family to take part in, here are a few suggestions to help you make Dad feel special on this upcoming Father’s Day.
Have an outdoor barbecue or picnic.
You may have had outdoor barbecues in the past, but after last year, this year’s could be extra special as family members who haven’t been able to visit for over a year are now able to come and celebrate Father’s Day with you and your dad. Make Dad the center of attention by giving him a special shirt or hat to wear (or maybe even an apron to wear at the grill). And don’t forget to serve his favorite food so everyone knows it’s his special day.
Honor those that are gone.
For some, holidays are hard as they are missing loved ones who are no longer with us. If your dad is mourning the loss of his wife, other children or siblings, take some time this holiday to honor those that are no longer here to celebrate with your dad. As a caregiver, you may be missing these people as well and it’s okay for you to share in those emotions with your father. Perhaps a visit to the cemetery or a place they used to frequent can be a good way to remember those no longer here.
Go to one of his favorite places.
Maybe your celebration is going to be a bit smaller – perhaps it’s just you and Dad. Ask your dad what he’d like to do. Many places are open back up this year and if you and your dad feel safe doing so, you may be able to go visit a museum, go to a ballgame, or tour his favorite garden. Since you cannot know the vaccination status of strangers, it’s still recommended you keep social distance from others, especially if they aren’t wearing masks. Looks for places that have either still limit the number of guests or have plenty of room to maintain social distance.
Just spend some time together.
Your dad may simply enjoy having you nearby on Father’s Day. You can enjoy a quiet lunch, play a game of cards, and/or take a walk in a local park. If your dad has mobility issues, a drive around his old neighborhoods or through a scenic area may be uplifting for his day.
No matter how you decide to celebrate your dad on Father’s Day, he will appreciate some time with you as not just his caregiver, but as a loving child who he helped raise and now relies on for care. It’s an honor for both of you.
