Halloween doesn’t have to be scary for seniors — unless you’re talking about the sugar crash. The truth? With a little creativity and a few smart tweaks, this holiday can be one of the most joyful times of year for older adults.
Here are festive, inclusive, and safe ways to make Halloween magical again — no tricks required.
Spooky Crafts That Don’t Require Steady Hands
Crafts are a Halloween classic, but arthritis or shaky hands can make traditional ones frustrating. That’s why seated, sensory-friendly projects work better.
- Pumpkin painting instead of carving: Use paint pens or stickers — no knives necessary.
- Soft felt masks: Cut ahead of time and let seniors decorate with foam stickers or glue-on pieces.
- Scented sachets: Fill Halloween-themed fabric pouches with cinnamon, clove, or pumpkin spice potpourri.
These options provide the joy of creation without the motor skill stress.
Costume Parades — Wheelchairs Welcome
A costume parade isn’t just for kids. And yes, it works in memory care too.
Here’s how:
- Keep the route short — even a circle around the living room with music playing will feel festive.
- Encourage themed hats or T-shirts instead of full costumes.
- For memory care, choose familiar themes: scarecrows, pumpkins, or old-time movie stars.
Tip: Make it a photo moment. Seniors love sharing pictures with grandkids!
Storytime, But Spooky-Lite
Seniors love a good story, but horror tales can backfire. Instead, try:
- Funny ghost stories — think tall tales, not trauma.
- Halloween trivia: Which candy came first? What’s the most popular costume by decade?
- Nostalgia nights: Let seniors share their favorite childhood Halloween memories.
A little nostalgia can go a long way toward lifting spirits.
Tasty Treats They Can Actually Eat
Skip the candy overload. Instead, whip up festive snacks that are safe and senior-friendly:
- Pumpkin hummus and veggie sticks
- Soft apple cider donuts
- Chocolate-dipped bananas with ghost faces
- Sugar-free hot cider with a cinnamon stick
Keep textures soft and watch out for hidden sugars if anyone has dietary restrictions.
Group Games That Get Everyone Laughing
Whether you’re in an assisted living facility or planning something at home, these games bring the energy:
- Pumpkin bowling: Use mini pumpkins and plastic pins
- Witch hat ring toss: You can find them at the dollar store or make your own
- Candy corn bingo: Use candy pieces as markers and offer small prizes
Just remember to keep rules simple and prizes fun, not fancy.
Safe Decor That Sets the Mood
Decorations matter — they signal fun is coming. But clutter and tripping hazards? No thank you.
- Stick to window clings, wall decals, and table centerpieces
- Avoid long hanging fabrics or things draped across walkways
- Use LED candles instead of real flames
Want to take it further? Add a soft orange glow to the room with string lights — no loud sound effects needed.
Simple Traditions That Stick
Sometimes the best Halloween traditions are the ones that seniors can revisit every year:
- Passing out candy together (even just to visiting staff or grandkids)
- Watching lighthearted Halloween movies
- Sipping cider and reminiscing
Like one of our clients, Mr. Jenkins, who cracked spooky dad jokes over cider every Halloween — now a memory care favorite that continues in his honor.
Make It Easy. Make It Safe. Make It Fun.
You don’t need elaborate decorations or intense activities. Just a little planning and a lot of love. And if you’re unsure where to start, begin with one idea and grow from there.
Enjoy Halloween with the whole family, no matter what age, with these activities. Our Happier at Home caregivers can help your loved engage in these activities and embrace their inner ghost, ghoul, or goblin!
Published June 2024 • Updated August 2025
Reviewed by Debbie Marcello, Founder & CEO of Happier at Home
This content is for informational use only and does not replace medical advice.
