Festive Activities and Crafts for Seniors in the New Forest

Arts and crafts have always been a wonderful way to express creativity and enjoy moments of mindfulness. For seniors, these activities also offer significant emotional and cognitive benefits. Engaging in creative tasks can improve dexterity, stimulate the mind, and foster a sense of accomplishment.

During Christmas, arts and crafts take on an extra layer of joy, as they bring family members together to create festive keepsakes. In the New Forest, you’ll find plenty of inspiration and opportunities to make this holiday season truly memorable.

Gingerbread Decorating: A Simple Yet Heartwarming Activity

Imagine the smell of gingerbread filling the air, Christmas carols playing softly in the background, and the sound of laughter as icing and sprinkles are shared across the table. Decorating gingerbread is a fantastic way to spend a winter afternoon. It’s easy, fun, and doesn’t require any prior skills—perfect for seniors and family members of all ages.

How to Get Started:

1. Pick up pre-made gingerbread kits from local shops or Christmas markets in the New Forest.
2. Gather an assortment of decorations like coloured icing, sprinkles, and edible glitter.
3. Set up a comfortable workspace with everything within easy reach, ensuring that seniors can participate without any strain.

Not only does this activity allow for creativity, but it also creates a tangible memento of the time spent together. Plus, gingerbread makes an excellent gift for neighbours or carers!

Christmas Crafts: Handmade Treasures for the Season

Handmade crafts add a personal touch to the festive season. Whether it’s creating baubles for the tree, knitting stockings, or designing holiday cards, these activities allow seniors to connect with the holiday spirit in a deeply personal way.

Craft Ideas to Try:

• Festive Wreaths: Use locally sourced foliage like holly, ivy, and pinecones to create a custom wreath that adds a personal touch to your home. Gathering materials from the beautiful surroundings of the New Forest makes the experience even more special. This activity is ideal to enjoy as a group with family or Care Professionals, combining creativity with companionship.
• Hand-Painted Decorations: Attend a pottery painting workshop in the New Forest to design unique ornaments that can be treasured for years to come. Painting together fosters connection, whether with loved ones or Care Professionals, while also allowing for the creation of memorable keepsakes.
• Christmas Cards: Craft personalised cards using stamps, stencils, and glitter to send heartfelt messages to loved ones. This is a wonderful group activity that encourages bonding while creating something meaningful for friends and family.
• Woven Willow Stars and Reindeer: Get creative at the Forest Arts Centre in New Milton, where you can craft a stunning woven star from Somerset willow. Perfectly suited for decorating windows, doors, or any space in your home, this festive craft adds a unique sparkle to your décor. Participants can also make a charming reindeer decoration, complete with a wooden stand. These workshops, which often include a glass of mulled wine or a soft drink, are a perfect way to enjoy the festive spirit with family or Care Professionals.

These activities not only embrace the holiday season but also provide opportunities for connection, creativity, and shared joy. For more information about crafting workshops, visit theForest Arts Centre website.

Food is an integral part of the Christmas season, and the New Forest is home to a variety of pubs, restaurants, and tea rooms that serve up festive delights.

Cosy Pubs with Festive Menus

After a day of exploring markets or attending events, nothing beats a hearty meal by a roaring fire. Pubs in Lyndhurst, Brockenhurst, and Lymington are known for their welcoming atmospheres and delicious seasonal menus.

Local Favourites:

• Traditional roast dinners with all the trimmings.
• Homemade puddings, such as sticky toffee and Christmas pudding.
• Mulled wine, spiced cider, and hot chocolate.

Festive Walks and Pub Stops

For seniors who enjoy light exercise, a short walk followed by a pub lunch is the perfect combination. Many trails in the New Forest are flat and easy to navigate, leading to charming establishments where you can warm up and refuel.

Recommended Walks:

• Lyndhurst to the New Forest Inn.
• Brockenhurst village stroll ending at The Snakecatcher.
• A gentle route near Beaulieu that finishes at Montagu Arms.

At Home Instead New Forest, we understand how important the festive season is for seniors and their families. Whether it’s helping clients decorate gingerbread, crafting handmade gifts, or attending local events, our care professionals are here to ensure the season is full of joy and connection.

We provide personalised support to make every moment count, from organising trips to festive markets to sharing stories over a cup of tea. This Christmas, let us help your loved ones feel the magic of the New Forest.

Plan Your Festive Activities Today

Christmas in the New Forest is an opportunity to create lasting memories through creativity, connection, and celebration. Whether it’s exploring the glowing lights of Sandy Balls, enjoying a festive meal by the fire, or simply spending time crafting at home, the possibilities are endless.

Let this season be one of joy, warmth, and togetherness. From all of us at Home Instead New Forest, we wish you a Christmas filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments.