“It is a wise father that knows his own child.” For many fathers, this quote from William Shakespeare speaks volumes when it comes time to celebrate Father’s Day. Whether you are a Father, a Dad, a Daddy, or any combination of these ideas, being a father can take on many roles, all of which are cause for joy during this special “Day for Dad!”
As caregivers, we know that a Dad plays an intricate role in the dynamic of a family, and for those whose fathers are aging, seeing this strong authority figure in a different light can be a time of conflicting emotions. If you still haven’t gotten the patriarch in your family a gift for Father’s Day approaching soon, here are some last-minute thoughts on how you can show appreciation for Dad:
- Take the time to listen: Fathers, especially those who are seniors, can be filled with stories from their own experiences that they haven’t shared with you. Shut off your phone and sit with them to let them open up with memories from their younger days. Not only will this give you insight that you can use for your own life, but allowing them to share their memories can help them remain aware.
- Do something together that they love: Whether it is a potluck, listening to music, going fishing or even a favorite drive around the island, let your Dad decide what the day should be all about. If Dad is not able to get around easily, find a favorite movie, show or sporting event that you can watch together.
- Technology: If you have a senior Dad that loves technology, offer them some new products that they might enjoy. Fill a digital music player with some favorite tunes, download some fun new apps (news, sudoku game, video communication app, such as Zoom) or even offer a personalized coupon for a few hours of “technology training” to assist Dad with computer or technology updates.
- Get the family together: Nothing says togetherness like bringing the entire ohana together. Sons, daughters, grandchildren, sisters, brothers and everyone in your extended family being able to be a part of Father’s Day can bring joy to everyone on this special day!
- A day for Dad: While there are some fathers that may enjoy the idea of relaxing at a beach for the day, there are others that won’t, but it doesn’t mean you can’t do something special. Take them to a barbershop for a haircut and a shave and help Dad look spiffy for Father’s Day!
Appreciating your Dad on Father’s Day doesn’t mean you have to get them a tie or another pair of socks. Showing a Dad what they mean to you by spending quality time together, doing something that they love or just taking care of them for the day will help create memories that will mean more than you may imagine. If you have a Dad, grandfather, or another family member who you think of like your Dad, who is at a place in their lives where they need assistance, the culture of care at FirstLight Home Care can help put your mind at ease. To learn more about the services that FirstLight Home Care can offer your loved ones, please contact us today.
This article is provided by Lauri Topping, Owner, FirstLight Home Care of Honolulu. For more information, visit us online at Honolulu.FirstLightHomeCare.com or call us at 808-600-3733.
