Halloween Activities for Older Adults

Halloween isn’t just for kids. It’s a great excuse for seniors to dress up, do some spooky crafts, and, of course, eat goodies. Here are five activities your senior loved ones can enjoy:

1. Movie Nights.

What’s Halloween without a spooky movie? Here are some of our favorites that are fun for all ages:

• Hocus Pocus: a light-hearted comedy about witches seeking revenge, featuring Bette Midler.
• Casper: based on the comic book character, this movie is about a ghost who wants to make friends.
• The Witches: a humorous movie about outsmarting an evil witch, played by Angelica Houston, and her plan to turn all children into mice.

2. Spooky Photos

Photo props are great for creating fun memories. Pull together old clothes and accessories or create your props using craft sticks and paper. Use them at a Halloween family gathering and take lots of photos to cherish for years to come. 

3. Halloween Snacks

There are a lot of other snacks to enjoy apart from the candy. For a senior-friendly take on candy apples, make or buy caramel apple dip and serve with sliced apples. Create a sweet and salty snack by mixing candy corn with either popcorn or peanuts. 

4. Make a Mask

There is no need for a full costume when seniors can be just as festive in a simple mask. It’s easy to make your own with a plain masquerade mask and craft supplies like feathers, rhinestones, and glitter. Have your senior parent wear the mask on Halloween night to surprise their grandkids or unexpecting trick-or-treaters.

5. Pumpkin Games

You can set up several games using pumpkins, like Pumpkin Knock Down game. Another pumpkin game could be guessing the pumpkin’s weight. Award the winners with great prizes.

6. Halloween Trivia

You can educate people with fun facts about Halloween. This could be a movie trivia test or a general trivia but make the contest interesting and challenging.

Tell your guests the plot line of a famous horror movie. Keep in mind that the movie must be relevant to the senior generation. Using only hints from the plot, let the guests guess the name of the movie. Keep score of the correct answers.

7. Attend a Costume Party

Choosing a Halloween costume can be fun and wearing it at a costume party can be even more exciting. Attending parties is also a great way for seniors to increase social interaction which benefits their health. It also provides a sense of belonging and increases self-esteem.

8. Making Cards

Seniors can express their talent by making unique Halloween cards. This can help them connect with friends and family and keep them engaged.

9. Prepare for Halloween Trick-or-Treaters

You’ll probably be handing out a lot of treats to children during their trick-or-treating sessions. It’s important to prepare for this beforehand. You can make pumpkin pouch goody bags, decorate your front door to look more welcoming, and perhaps make a mixed bag of candy, as well. Get creative!

10. Enjoy the Fresh Air and Nature

Fall is a great time to enjoy nature. Breathe in the fresh air, admire the colors on display and go for a walk. You can do any of the following:

• Crack open a window to enjoy the fresh air
• Relax in the backyard
• Go for a walk through the local park
• Stroll in your neighborhood
• Take your pet out for a walk

Making festive treats, engaging in games, hosting a party, or taking your grandkid trick-or-treating are just some more ideas about what an older person can do during Halloween. There’s no need to feel restricted by your age. Enjoy the occasion to the best of your ability by doing any of the above-mentioned activities.

Halloween is great for kids, but seniors can have some fun with it, too.