The Fourth of July is a wonderful time to gather with friends and family to celebrate the independence of this beautiful country that we get to call home. However, the fireworks which have become synonymous with the national holiday can create quite a stressful experience for many seniors. Sudden, loud noises, flashing lights, and the smell of smoke are all stimuli that can trigger PTSD. So, how can one celebrate the Fourth of July while still being thoughtful of the seniors in their family who may be trauma sensitive? Here are three ideas to help you enliven your Fourth of July- fireworks free!

Make Fourth of July Themed Dessert
After your Fourth of July BBQ, there’s always room for dessert! Enjoy making desserts with the classic American red, white, and blue. Baking and decorating patriotic cakes, cookies, and other pastries can be a great senior-friendly activity! Be creative, and make it a competition! See who can make the best show-stopping American themed dish.
Celebrate with Mini American Flags, Sparklers, and Confetti Poppers
Even without lighting up big fireworks, there are many other fun and
interactive ways to still celebrate the Fourth of July and show off your patriotic
spirit! Some senior friendly party favors would be mini American flags, sparklers, or
making these DIY confetti poppers! Creating your own confetti poppers could be
another great activity that seniors and children could do together.
Patriotic Movie Marathon
This Fourth of July, consider doing a Fourth of July movie marathon with
your friends and family! This is a great, senior-friendly way to remember our
country’s history while enjoying some classic films. Maybe snack on some red,
white, and blue desserts while you’re at it!
Some great Fourth of July themed movies would be:
Lincoln
Independence Day
Captain America: The First Avenger
Top Gun.
We hope this article serves to give you some ideas on how to plan a Fourth of
July celebration while being thoughtful of the seniors in your life. Here’s to another
great Fourth of July, and new traditions being started!

The Cedars Retirement Community is a beautiful lakeside retirement residence located just outside of Fort Wayne, Indiana. The Cedars Retirement Community offers a full calendar of gathering times, hands-on activities, and fun events. Located in Leo, Indiana, The Cedars believes in providing the highest quality of life and opportunity for seniors. We want to ensure that the latter years are lived with joy, enthusiasm, and relational connections. Please contact us with any questions or to schedule a tour of our beautiful lakeside retirement community.
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