Easy and Fun Fall Decor for Seniors

In just a few days, we officially say goodbye to summer and welcome fall. This season is a favorite among Americans across all age brackets thanks to the palatable weather, the beautiful foliage, and the activities that come with it. If you’re among the group who has been looking forward to fall all year, you already know one of the best ways to get in the mood is with seasonal decor.

Crafting and decorating one’s home is a fantastic activity for seniors. In doing so, older adults actively engage their problem-solving skills, their creative thinking, and their hand-eye coordination. So, this year, try sprucing up your home with this easy and fun fall decor for seniors. These pieces have nothing to do with Halloween, so you can use them before and after the holiday.

Create a seasonal wreath

If you already have a wreath base, one of the first décor changes you can make is with your wreath. This is a place where you can truly let your creativity shine. Gather leaves and greenery from your local craft store (or go on a nature walk and collect some) and arrange it based on what you think looks good.

If you need ideas, you can look up inspiration on Pinterest. With thousands of options to explore, you can mix and match designs to create something that is uniquely you, hung up on your front door.

Cinnamon stick candles

For something as effective as it is easy, transform your pillar candles with cinnamon sticks. Wrap a rubber band around a candle, then secure cinnamon sticks underneath them close to one another. Then, conceal the cinnamon with twine, tie it in a bow, and you’re done! It’s truly that simple to make an impact.

If you plan on lighting the candles and are concerned about a mess or potential fire hazard, that is completely understandable. Instead of completing this process around a candle itself, do so around a jarred candle. The final product will be just as pretty!

Decoupage with fall leaves

In Illinois, we are lucky to be surrounded by gorgeous foliage. Take advantage of that by starting a collection, then using it in your seasonal décor. Allow them to dry, then use them for decoupage projects. Make a colorful display around a fake pumpkin, use them to decorate a votive jar or decorative bowl, or place them over anything else that needs an autumnal touch. Decoupage is fun and easy!

Colorful maize centerpiece

You don’t have to use pumpkins to make a statement centerpiece. Purchase dried, glass gem maize (or corn) and secure it around a tall, vertical vase using twine or raffia ribbon. If you’d like it to be a more permanent enhancement, adhere the corn with hot glue first. Then, fill the vase with your favorite autumnal florals and greenery.

If you can’t find any glass gem corn, you could purchase any other type of dried corn and paint it whatever colors you’d like. You could also leave it in its pale yellow and gold hues for a more muted look.

Fall leaf-stamped napkins

Seasonal napkins can be quite pricey, so save yourself the price tag by making some of your own. Purchase cheap, plain napkins and grab leaves from your yard. Paint these leaves with your paint color of choice (consider purchasing fabric paint), and with a rolling pin, stamp them onto the napkin. Allow it to dry, and you’re done!

This technique can be applied to anything you like. Try it on placemats, table runners, or even your shirts! This craft in particular would be fun to do with grandchildren.

Put together your fall bucket list

With so much to look forward to, it can be easy to miss things if you don’t have a list. Get creative with your fall bucket list by making a décor piece out of it! Purchase a small bucket from a craft store and decorate it as you see fit—whether that’s with ribbon, paint, or simply left on its own. Create a small “fall bucket list” sign to place on the outside.

Using colorful popsicle sticks, write down everything you’d like to do this season (this would be another great place to involve your grandchildren). Then, place them inside your bucket, and pull one free any time you are looking for an activity to do.

An at-home caregiver can help you age in place this fall

As you look forward to your autumnal festivities, don’t forget to take care of your daily needs too. If you find you need help with personal care, medication reminders, or any other activities of daily living, call upon the help of an at-home caregiver.

At Home Care Powered by AUAF, our staff is here to help you age comfortably and confidently at home. For more information on our services, give us a call at 773-274-9262.