4 DIY Costume Ideas for Seniors

It’s almost time for the spookiest, most mysterious time of year – Halloween! As the countdown to the big day begins, and you stock up on candy for the trick-or-treaters, we wanted to prep you and your family (and of course, clients) for the best one yet.

While you may think it might be silly to dress up your senior loved one, you’re never too old to go all out and celebrate Halloween!  Check out some of our favorite costume ideas below. We hope each costume will inspire you to think of even more ideas, whether it’s a favorite movie character, historical figure and so much more!

Charlie Chaplin

There’s nothing more recognizable and more iconic than one of the first actors of the silver screen – Charlie Chaplin! Prepare your loved one with a fake (or real) mustache, walking stick, large floppy leather shoes, and a black suit. Don’t forget the top-hat!

Caregiver tip: What you can do to really make the costume a hit, is watch a few clips of Charlie and practice imitating him together to tune into your client’s acting skills! Check out one of his most famous films, The Kid, on YouTube!

Audrey Hepburn

Is there really anybody more iconic than Audrey Hepburn in her role as Holly Golightly in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”? If your loved one is a fan, or simply loved the movie, in particular, get ready to go glamorous with a black dress, black gloves, dark sunglasses, pearl necklace, and diamond hairpiece. Just throw a fabulous Halloween party with your friends and family you’re good to go!

Caregiver tip: Did you know that “Breakfast at Tiffany’s was actually based on a book by Truman Capote, author of In Cold Blood? Grab a copy for yourself and the client, and read up before sitting down to watch the movie to capture the beauty and complexity of Holly’s character.

Uncle Sam

Does your client or loved one bear a striking resemblance to Mr. America himself?

You’ll need (if their hair is not white or gray) a wig, white goatee, and mustache, stars & stripes styled top hat, white shirt, military-style blue jacket, and red bow-tie.

Caregiver tip: There is so much interesting history behind Uncle Sam and whether or not he was a real general or simply a fictional character in the American narrative. Try reading up on this online or watching this video together about it!

The Queen of England

She’s smart, she’s sassy, she’s fashionable, and one of the most important leaders in the world! Queen Elizabeth is a perfect costume for a strong senior, and luckily you don’t need much to perfect her look. Put together a matching skirt and jacket set, a large hat, and/or a crown!

Caregiver tip: To get in a “royal” mood, check out part one of “The Queen” starring Helen HERE on YouTube.