Birthdays can feel bittersweet later in life, especially after a transition to a care setting, like a nursing home or memory care, but they are still an important reason to celebrate. Celebrating your loved one’s birthday can bring joy to their day and give you and other family members the opportunity to connect with each other in a meaningful way. Planning a birthday celebration in a nursing home can be rewarding, but it’s often quite different from organizing a traditional party. Here are a few tips on how to plan the perfect birthday celebration for your loved one in a care facility.

Consider the size of the birthday celebration

Start by considering how large or intimate the celebration should be. Think about who your loved one would want to invite. If they have never been a big fan of large gatherings, keep the guest list small, perhaps to just close family or a few longtime friends. If they thrive in social settings, consider inviting extended family, friends, fellow residents, and staff members. Also be sure to check with the facility about any restrictions on the number of allowed visitors.

You might also take into account the significance of the birthday. A milestone birthday might call for a larger celebration, while other years may be best marked with a more low-key event.

Decorate their room or common areas

Decorating is a festive way to create a celebratory atmosphere. Decorate their personal space, and talk with the staff about whether they allow decorating in common areas.

Here are some creative decorating ideas:

• Add streamers or ribbon to their walker or wheelchair.
• Have them wear a special birthday headband or celebratory pin.
• Decorate their door with a special sign or a garland.
• Place flower arrangements or balloon bouquets on tables.

Bring a favorite treat or meal

One of the simplest ways to celebrate a birthday is with a favorite treat or meal. Think about your loved one’s favorite dish or dessert, perhaps something tied to fond memories or family traditions. Choose something they used to make for the family or order on a night out. Just make sure it works with their diet and allergy considerations as well as with the facility’s guidelines.

Incorporate memory-inspiring touches

Incorporating nostalgic elements into the birthday celebration may prompt your loved one to reminisce about old memories. Here are a few ideas:

• Play music from their youth or an important event, like their wedding song.
• Create a scrapbook or photo display with family pictures.
• Use their favorite movie as inspiration for the decorations or activities.
• Decorate a table with keepsakes like postcards, artwork, military medals, and other knick-knacks.

Plan activities according to their cognitive or physical needs

Activities can keep the party engaging and inclusive, but it’s important to match them to your loved one’s cognitive and physical needs. Consider their energy levels and preferences when choosing how to celebrate. For example, if your loved one has a low threshold for stimulation, doing a puzzle together might be a better choice than a dance party with loud music.

Here are a few ideas:

• Watch their favorite movie in a shared space with popcorn.
• Play trivia bingo using fun facts from your loved one’s life. Let them share stories as you go.
• If the weather is nice, head outside to play yard games like cornhole and croquet.
• Play seated balloon toss or seated balloon volleyball, which are perfect for intergenerational fun.

Use technology to include faraway loved ones

If your loved one is open to it, technology can help bring distant family members into the celebration.

To make it easier on your loved one:

• Consider one group call instead of multiple individual ones.
• Keep the call low-pressure and brief, based on their comfort.

You can also incorporate digital keepsakes. Family members can send voice recording art as a meaningful birthday gift. You could also ask guests to contribute to a talking photo album that your loved one can look at and listen to long after the party is over.

Coordinate your plans with staff in advance

Whatever your plans are, it’s essential to coordinate with the nursing home staff in advance. They can help ensure the celebration goes smoothly and that it aligns with facility policies. Here are some important questions to ask:

• Is there a limit to how many people you can invite?
• Can you use a community space, or do you have to keep the party in their room?
• Can staff assist with setup?
• What are the rules around decorating?
• Are there any foods or treats that aren’t allowed? Ask about your loved one’s specific meal plan and any allergies of other residents who might be in attendance.
• Are there staff-supported activities you can include?
• Are there any dates or times that are better for a birthday celebration? Are there days or times you should avoid, like during a scheduled activity or mealtime?
• Are there any other facility guidelines or suggestions from staff?

Every birthday is worth celebrating

No matter the setting, every birthday is worth recognizing. Celebrating your loved one in a nursing home not only brings them joy but also creates lasting memories for everyone involved. With a little planning and creativity, you can make their special day truly meaningful.