6 Simple, Heartfelt Ways to Celebrate Mom This Mother’s Day ❤️

Mom turned 70 this year, and as much as I hate to admit it, her mobility isn't quite what it used to be-long outings can really take a toll on her. Mother's Day has always been about showing thoughtfulness and care, but now more than ever, I'm mindful of finding ways to make the day special while considering her changing needs.

Over the past few years, I've learned that with a little creativity, Mother's Day can still be incredibly meaningful for moms like mine. From my experiences, I'm sharing six thoughtful ways to celebrate that have worked beautifully for us-and hopefully they'll spark some inspiration for your own celebration, too.

1. Make a Scrapbook (or Digital Slideshow)

Nothing brings joy quite like reminiscing about happy memories-and there's no better way to remind mom of some of those moments than with some old photographs. Take a look through your old camera or phone to gather what photos you can find. For an extra hand, ask your siblings, cousins, and that one neighbor who still writes in cursive to send their memories and notes, too.

This thoughtful gift not only celebrates your mother's life but can also serve as a powerful memory-jogger and conversation starter, keeping her brain active and moving. This cognitive stimulant can be especially valuable for mothers experiencing memory challenges.

PS - If your loved one is using JubileeTV, you can create a digital slideshow for them, too.

2. Go Somewhere, But Not Too Far

Mom still loves to go places, but we plan with a little more care now. Long walks have become short strolls. Big days out have become quieter moments-closer to home, but still full of life.

With her mobility and energy levels in mind, you can plan a successful outing with mom that gets her out of the house without exhausting her. Some ideas include:

• A leisurely drive through scenic areas she once loved

• A short visit to a botanical garden during less crowded hours

• A specially arranged private tour of a museum or art gallery

• A gentle nature walk in an accessible park with plenty of seating

Even if mom can't make the journey too far out of the house, remember: it's less about the activity and more about the feeling. A chance for her to see and feel the world, without it taking too much from her.

Pro tip: Remember to plan around her most energetic time of day, bring necessary medications, and ensure easy access to restrooms and comfortable seating throughout your adventure. For museums and garden visits, some of these facilities will offer special "senior hours" in the early morning, open exclusively for senior guests before opening to the general public an hour later.

3. Share a Meal - and a Little Bit of History

There's something sacred about a meal-especially one rooted in shared family memories. If family is nearby, consider planning a brunch or dinner where everyone can come together, not just to eat, but to simply be with each other. It doesn't have to be elaborate. And if more than one mom is present, all the better.

If you're up for it, try recreating one of mom's old family recipes-something that transports you back to childhood dinners and tastes like a favorite memory. It doesn't have to be perfect (she'll probably guide you from the sidelines anyway), but the effort alone can mean a lot. Or better yet, cook with her. Let the kitchen become a place for stories, laughter, and a little bit of flour on the counter.

And if cooking isn't in the cards this year, there's always her favorite takeout-served at home, with soft music playing and no dishes to do. The goal isn't the meal itself-it's the comfort and connection that comes with it.

4. Treat her to a Spa Day (Without Leaving the House)

If mom can't-or just doesn't want to-go anywhere, bring the "anywhere" to her. A massage therapist who knows how to work with aging joints, a nail tech with steady hands, or maybe mom's favorite hair stylist who does house calls could all be wonderful surprises for mom.

Some thoughtful at-home spa ideas might include:

• A warm foot soak with Epsom salts and essential oils

• Gentle facial treatments with senior-appropriate products

• A professional manicure with her favorite polish color

• Hair styling or a blow-out from a stylist who can come to her home

In recent years, we've done Epsom salt foot soaks, facials, and hair styling with the grandkids in the living room while reruns of Jeopardy! play in the background. Mom feels pampered, and I feel like I accomplished something without ever putting on real pants. Everybody wins!

5. Revisit Old Hobbies with Her (Even the Boring Ones)

Another wonderful way to celebrate with mom is to participate in some of her favorite hobbies together, both new and old. If arthritis makes certain activities difficult, maybe you could set up an easy crafting project you can do together. If she loves gardening, bring potted plants for a small container garden she can tend from her chair or patio.

For the mother who loves cooking, adapt favorite recipes to be prepared together at a comfortable pace, or simply have her guide you through making her signature dish while you handle the physical work.

These aren't bonding activities so much as bonding excuses. You're not just filling time. You're honoring hers.

6. Plan a Virtual Celebration or Care Package

When distance or circumstances prevent in-person visits, modern, senior-friendly technology offers ways to connect meaningfully. A virtual celebration can be just as heartfelt with some advance planning and creativity.

For example, try sending mom a little "celebration box" ahead of time that includes her favorite tea, a candle, and a soft scarf from her favorite brand. Then hop on a call, drink tea together, play some trivia, or wherever else the conversation takes you.

With thoughtful preparation, virtual celebrations can create beautiful moments of connection that transcend physical distance.

PS - I might be biased, but JubileeTV has made video calling, dropping in, and checking on mom a breeze, especially on the days when I can't drive three hours to visit.

Remember: It's Not About the Plans; It's About the Presence.

The older mom gets, the more I realize that Mother's Day isn't about doing something perfect. It's about being there-really being there. Paying attention. Making space for her to feel known, appreciated, and quietly celebrated for everything she's been, and everything she still is.

In the end, it's these quiet, intentional moments that tend to stay with us. The ones that make you grateful you slowed down, even just for a day. You don't have to do it all. Just one thing, done with love, is enough.