Retirement is a season of life most people look forward to for years. It usually brings more freedom and fewer responsibilities. That gives seniors time to socialize, travel, and pursue favorite pastimes.
One fun way to spend a rainy afternoon or snowy evening is an indoor movie marathon with friends. Weather permitting, you could also host an outdoor movie night.
An outdoor movie night doesn’t have to be complicated. You will need to rent or invest in a movie projector and possibly speakers. A simple white sheet hung on the side of the house or between two patio torches can act as a screen. Ask guests to bring their own lawn chair or blanket.
If the crowd will largely be made up of seniors, it could be fun to feature an oldie, like an Elvis Presley movie or other classic. Also consider showing a movie that stars older adults.
Movies to Show When Hosting a Gathering of Older Adults
We pulled together this list of movies to help you get started:
- Grumpy Old Men starring Jack Lemmon, Walter Matthau, Ann-Margret, and Burgess Meredith
- On Golden Pond, with a cast that includes Henry Fonda, Katharine Hepburn, and Jane Fonda
- Singin’ in the Rain remains a popular classic featuring Debbie Reynolds and Gene Kelly
- Lincoln, released in 2012, highlights the dark days of our nation’s civil unrest
- Walk the Line tells the story of singer Johnny Cash
- Driving Miss Daisy is a beloved movie set in the late 40s
- The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, released in 2011, is a drama/comedy starring Bill Nighy, Dame Judi Dench, and Tom Wilkinson
- The Bucket List is an adventure/comedy featuring Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson
- Cocoon, released in 1985, is a comedy starring Don Ameche and Wilford Brimley
- Something’s Gotta Give is another entertaining comedy with Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson
Don’t Forget the Snacks
What would a night at the movies be without snacks?
If you don’t want to ask guests to bring a favorite treat to share, make it easy. Stock up on a variety of candies and different flavors of bagged popcorn. A cooler of cold beverages can keep things simple and minimize cleanup.
An Abundance of Social Activities at Five Star Senior Living
At Five Star Senior Living communities, movie nights are a favorite with residents. They are just one of the many activities residents can enjoy every day. Others include Tai Chi, yoga, swimming, art workshops, daily devotionals, and card clubs.
We invite you to call the Five Star community nearest you to learn more about our Lifestyle360 program. This holistic approach to aging helps residents enjoy their best quality of life during retirement!