Did you know that seniors need to be active to stay healthy? Despite their age, keeping them engaged in fun activities is very important. This does not only improve their physical health, but it also enhances their cognitive abilities as well as their social ties. Looking for exciting activities that your elderly loved ones can try? Check out the list below.
Dancing
Dancing is a fun way for seniors to stay in shape and socialize with their peers. Studies have found that dancing improves strength, muscle functions, flexibility, and cardiovascular health of older adults. Aside from being a social activity, dance classes for adults is also used as a form of therapy that helps seniors express their emotions and makes them feel good. Ballroom dancing, Zumba, tap dancing, and salsa dancing are some of the most popular dancing activities for the elderly.
Musical Activities
Music is known to be a mood booster for people of all ages. It has also been recognized as a form of therapy that promotes memory recall and improves one’s overall wellbeing. Letting seniors enjoy musical activities can lift up their moods while spending time with others. Musical activities like karaoke singing, music lessons, and name that song games are great options. Through these activities, their stamina and communication skills will be improved while having a good time.
Gardening
Did you know that gardening is more than just a pleasant outdoor activity? Gardening for seniors can offer them a multitude of physical and emotional health benefits. This hobby acts as a gentle exercise that can reduce stress, improve their mood, and keep their minds sharp. Assistive Technology Professional, Scott Grant, at https://www.grayingwithgrace.com/gardening-stools-seniors/ recommends providing seniors with gardening stools and tools. The reason behind this is because these kinds of gardening equipment provide support and mobility for elders with green thumbs. It has been found that gardening rollers, stools, and seats can help reduce arthritic knees and back pains for seniors.
Age-Friendly Sports
Engaging in sports can help seniors maintain their weight, stay social, and reduce the risk of heart diseases. However, it is best to consider seniors’ physical conditions, fitness level, and abilities when choosing a sport for your elderly loved ones. Some of the most popular gentle sports activities for seniors are:
- Swimming – a low-impact exercise that improves cardiovascular health and muscular strength and reduces the risks of arthritis.
- Tai Chi – offers low-impact fitness and relaxation that boosts flexibility.
- Bowling – promotes balance and coordination, and increases endurance.
- Tennis or Badminton – a fast-paced activity that improves coordination and balance.
- Walking – going for a walk at least 30 minutes a day boosts mental health, improves heart health, and lowers blood sugar.
- Golf – playing golf improves focus and mental strategy skills.
Board Games
For seniors who are not fit or interested to participate in physical activities, board games are a great way to keep them busy and entertained at the same time. It is also an opportunity for them to spend time playing with their family or friends. Some studies even have noted that board games can reduce the risk of dementia and cognitive decline. Board games like chess, checkers, Scrabble, Monopoly, and Cranium are perfect for improving their cognitive abilities as well as their motor skills.
Arts and Crafts
Creative activities can be a form of art therapy for the elderly. Aside from being fun, these kinds of activities improve cognitive and sensory-motor functions, aid in relaxation, reduce stress and boredom, as well as boost one’s self-esteem. Arts and crafts activities can be in the form of painting, drawing, knitting, sewing, scrapbooking, making collages, and many more.
Birdwatching
For seniors with less mobility, birdwatching is a great way to stay active and enjoy nature. It is a healthy pastime activity for seniors that can be very therapeutic. This activity promotes mindfulness and being mentally sharp. It is also a fairly inexpensive hobby as it only requires just a really good pair of binoculars.
Kitchen Activities
Cooking and baking are also some of the many ways for the elderly to have fun. Kitchen activities can also help relieve stress and create a vibe that is fun. Letting the elderly whip up delicious treats in the kitchen is a great way to keep seniors active, social, and happy. Activities can range from making sandwiches, preparing kebabs, baking cookies, and more complicated recipes.
Several fun activities can keep the elderly entertained and engaged. They do not just keep their company, but also provide several health benefits and an opportunity to socialize. However, their capabilities, interest, and health conditions should always be considered first before introducing the activity.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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