Engaging Activities for Seniors

Helping your senior engage in activities can play a vital role in enhancing their physical and mental well-being while deterring potential health challenges. An active and fulfilling lifestyle filled with fun and engaging activities can make all the difference in your senior’s world.

Companion care services from Visiting Angels can provide social interaction and camaraderie to lift their spirits, keep them active, and reduce the cycle of chronic isolation.

Activities for Seniors with Limited Mobility

Although your loved one may not be able to participate in the same activities as they did in their younger years, they can still partake in familiar hobbies and new interests. Tailoring activities to their capabilities and comfort level is essential.

If your loved one has trouble getting around, there’s no reason they can’t tap into one or more of these engaging activities:

• Reading
  Your loved one can explore scenic locales, bygone eras, and more through reading, which provides a gateway to learning and cognitive engagement. If vision concerns make physical books a challenge, try an e-reader or audiobook. Starting a book club can help them reap the cognitive and social benefits — even if it is virtual or comprises only a few members.

• Group exercise
  Many fitness centers offer chair yoga, Pilates, tai chi, rhythmic drumming, and calisthenics designed specifically for older adults with mobility concerns. If a trip to the gym isn’t possible, virtual group fitness classes or online videos can be done at home with a caregiver or loved one.

• Creative pursuits
  Everyone needs to express themselves, and seniors are no exception. Painting, knitting, crocheting, cooking/baking, playing music, gardening, scrapbooking, and crafting are just a few ways they can tap into their creative side. Consider sharing your loved one’s talents and expertise with friends and family (especially grandchildren).

Activities for Seniors with Cognitive Decline

Cognitive decline can be frustrating and challenging for seniors, but staying engaged socially and mentally may improve quality of life, ease anxiety, and enhance well-being. Here are a few activities to try:

• Games and puzzles
  Whether on an old-fashioned game board or a smartphone, playing games and puzzles can provide a workout for your loved one’s cognitive “muscles.” Recruit a caregiver, family member, or friend and break out that unopened puzzle, the old Scrabble board, or start an online chess game.

• Memory activities
  Anything that stimulates your loved one’s memory – such as watching classic movies, listening to favorite songs, organizing family photos, or sharing funny stories from the past — can help create positive feelings and lift your senior’s mood.

• Outdoor fun
  Spending time outdoors can boost your senior’s Vitamin D levels, engage their senses, improve sleep, and enhance mood. Depending on your loved one’s mobility and the weather, consider taking a walk, gardening, or spending time outside — but take precautions to reduce the risk of dehydration, sun exposure, or wandering.

Social Activities for Seniors

Socialization for seniors is necessary for them to stay physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy as they age. Here are a few activities that encourage interaction with others:

• Charity projects
  If your loved one is passionate about a cause, find a local group that could use their skills, experience, and abilities. Getting involved in local organizations allows your senior to meet like-minded people while helping others, which can generate positive feelings and provide a sense of purpose.

• Dinner and a night out
  A meal or night out with a friend or family member can provide a bright spot in an otherwise mundane week for your senior. Select a new or familiar restaurant. Make a day of it by taking in a show, visiting the symphony, going on a bus trip, or checking out a museum. Your loved one may be able to take advantage of discounted senior rates and the ability to visit attractions during off-peak times.

With a little effort and creativity, you can help your loved one create an event calendar that ensures they stay engaged, active, excited, and connected with their peers and community.

Visiting Angels Provides Companionship

If your loved one needs encouragement or support as they explore new activities or maintain favorite hobbies, a Visiting Angels caregiver can provide the companionship and assistance they need.

Contact your local Visiting Angels office to learn more about how Visiting Angels can help reduce boredom, promote engagement, and improve well-being for your senior loved one.