St. Patrick’s Day doesn’t just have to be about cabbage and corned beef. Although having said that, cabbage is an oft-favorite choice of food for the elderly demographic since it “clears constipation, checks piles and obesity (caloric value is only 27 kilo calories).”
St. Patrick was the Patron Saint of Ireland and the day he had his big feast (March 17th) was traditionally a very important day in Ireland’s religious calendar. As well as wearing green (the color of the Irish flag), eating cabbage and corned beef, what does one do on St. Patrick’s Day and what is good for the elderly to do?
Since the elderly often enjoy a spot of gardening, planting a clover could be a good idea. Also known traditionally in St. Patrick’s Day as a shamrock, this has over the years become a symbol for this day. Some people even choose to wear a white shamrock in the left lapel of their jacket. So planting clovers could be a great way to connect to the day.
Seniors can also help others create green-based costumes to wear on the day. You can also sit with the seniors in your neighborhood to help them make something. This is a great way to bridge the generational gap as you bring in younger kids to help them. Play with green playdough! Playdough is a great therapeutic tool for lots of physical issues and can be a fun way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
St. Patrick’s Day is a great day to celebrate…for everyone!