Valentine’s Day might be known for love, but there is an equally special day a few days later, on February 17th – Random Act of Kindness Day.
On this day, the objective is to do something nice for loved ones and strangers alike. The hope is to think beyond our own needs and desires, foster goodwill towards or friends and neighbors, and inspire all of us to make kindness a daily habit.
We’re sure that when you put kindness top of mind you’ll see opportunities all around you. But, just to get you started here are a few simple ideas for spreading kindness on February 17th or any day thereafter.
Reminisce with a Loved One
Spending time reminiscing with a loved one is an incredibly rewarding act of kindness. Flipping through a photo album, listening to old tunes, or even watching a classic movie are all great ways to get your loved one chatting about past memories.
Your loved one is sure to love spending time with you and sharing stories about things that have brought them joy over the years.
The really neat thing about these moments spent reminiscing is how rewarding it can be for you too. Bring along a notebook or a voice recorder and capture these memories for future generations and other family members.
At Kensington Park, we believe in the power of Reminisce Therapy for Alzheimer’s and Dementia as a part of our Memory Care program. But, regardless of your age or state of memory, reminiscing can be a loving act of kindness to share with anyone.
Send a Good Morning or Good Night Text Message
Text messaging is kind of the modern “personal note.”
Some of us might remember getting the random note in our lunch box from a parent, an unexpected letter in the mailbox from an old friend, or maybe even a love note slipped to us from a beau. These little unexpected notes always have a way of lighting up our day.
Recreate these little sparks of joy with a quick text message wishing your loved one good morning, a great day ahead, or a good night’s sleep. A text message notification coming across a loved one’s phone, at a random time of the day or week, will instantly put a smile on their face.
Make it even more special by Facetiming or video conferencing.
Run Some Errands for a Loved One
Many of our senior loved ones are a little less mobile than they used to be. This prevents them from running routine errands or maybe even getting that favorite treat.
So, the next time you’re heading out to run errands think about that special senior in your life. Call and ask if they need anything from the grocery store. How about from the post office – would they like you to drop off a letter or grab some stamps? Or, just surprise them with some fresh flowers or a special treat from their favorite bakery.
Wheel Out Your Neighbor’s Trash Bin
Even if it’s not family, I bet there are a few seniors in your neighborhood that would appreciate a little help with a daily chore or two. Wheel out that trash bin on trash day, rake their leaves, or shovel the snow. Even just checking in on them from time to time and sharing a cup of coffee or tea can make all the difference in their day.
Compliment Someone with a Personal Note or Poem
Compliments are magical elixirs. A simple kind word or recognition of someone’s talents can immediately turnaround a bad day or melancholy mood.
Take this one step further by getting a card or nice stationery and taking the time to write a considered note or even a poem celebrating what makes your loved one so special to you.
In your note or poem, cite a special day or moment you shared together that still brings you joy when you recall it, list special qualities that make them special to you and tell them how they have made you a better person.
Sign Up for an Alzheimer’s Awareness Event
Acts of kindness are often the most impactful when they are delivered one on one. However, there are also opportunities to gather together with friends, family, and larger groups to make a really big impact.
The Alzheimer’s Association is one of those opportunities. Consider organizing or registering for one of the following, truly unique ways, of spreading awareness and gaining support for finding cures for Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
This just one worthy cause and organization. Think about making one of your random acts of kindness a step to get involved in a bigger cause to make our world a better place.
Looking for more random acts of kindness to try? Random Acts of Kindness Foundation has a seamlessly never-ending list of ideas to spread kindness.
Further Reading:
Memory loss is life changing for all involved. At Kensington Park, we provide a state-of-the-art memory care program, a higher staff-to-resident ratio than industry standards, and more advanced care services. Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.
For additional resources regarding your loved one’s condition, please read on about our Memory Care, Alzheimer’s Care and Dementia Care.