Happening Events: Creative Ideas For Project Management

How to Make Your Event More Elder Friendly

When planning an event, you want to be sure that it will be fun for all ages, and that nobody is excluded. If you're expecting elderly attendees, then there are a few steps you can take to make sure they're as comfortable as possible. It won't take much time or effort, but will make a big difference to the experience of guests. Whether it's a private party or a public event, you want every guest to leave with a smile on their face.

Provide enough seating

Having adequate seating is essential when catering to elderly guests, who can find it difficult to stand for long periods of time. You should hire more chairs than you think you need, and position them at regular intervals around the venue. This ensures that guests won't have to walk too far when they need a seat.

If there are certain displays or areas of the event you'd like to draw attention to, then positioning chairs close to them can encourage people to take a look. Make sure that some seating is located in quiet areas too - this is especially important if there'll be a lot of noise, as the elderly can struggle with hearing and feel more comfortable taking a break somewhere calm.

Make sure the venue is accessible

When choosing a venue, you should make sure that it's fully wheelchair accessible. Steep steps or narrow corridors are a big no-no. Your ideal venue will be large and open, with plenty of disabled parking close to the entrance, handrails alongside any steps, and ramps where needed. This ensures that guests can get around comfortably if they have physical limitations - whether this involves a wheelchair, crutches, or a walking stick. Disabled toilets should also be available and well signposted. Disabled access is often a legal requirement of events, so you'll be protecting yourself, as well as your guests, by making sure there's good access.

Provide a program

Knowing what to expect will help your elderly guests to prepare before they come to your event. Many older people get tired quickly, and may prefer to attend only the start or end of the event. By providing a full program, they can pick out any sections they're really interested in, and avoid those that aren't relevant. You can also include accessibility information - for example, adjustments to hearing aids that might need to be made for certain talks, or warnings about bright flashing lights.


Share