The 5 Senses: Apple Cider, Autumn Leaves, Crackling Fires, Pumpkin Pies Baking, and a Hug
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Taste, Sight, Hearing, Smell, Touch

Many people (older and younger) view autumn with enthusiasm. They look forward to slowing down a bit–marveling at the color of the changing leaves, sitting by a warm fire in cozy surroundings, reading, listening to music, working on a creative endeavor, while the aroma of goodies baking in the oven fills the air.

Of course “many” is not “all.” There are others–some with SAD (seasonal affect disorder) who crave daylight to keep depression away, as well as non-SAD others– who anticipate with some sense of dread the skies that darken earlier and shorten each day, the bare branches whose leaves turn beautiful then die, the changing weather and inevitable heavier clothing. Is it a more lonesome time?

I think about old people. Having an active life, pushes some of the dreariness out of the way.

If it seems like I’m rushing autumn, blame it on the school calendar where Labor Day feels like the end of summer.

Trying to be prepared, I’m thinking of creative ideas to raise older people’s spirits in autumn. Realizing the importance of the 5 senses, I’m wondering if we can energize and lift aging parents’ spirits–indeed any older person’s spirits–by bringing gifts or arranging activities that incorporate at least 1 of the 5 senses. I’m guessing you’re getting the idea.

Next post: Autumn Ideas: Taste 

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