Activities To Keep Seniors Engaged and Active

Activity is important throughout life, but it becomes paramount once we reach our senior ages. Activity can range from joining a Senior Center club to spending time with family and friends. All have different benefits when you are older. One of the best ways to stay engaged as you age is to find things you enjoy and stick with them. If you enjoy reading, find a book club or a group of friends you can meet up with weekly to discuss your books. If you enjoy gardening, try a gardening club or garden with your grandchildren. The options are limitless and depend on your personal preference. In this article, we will discuss all the ways you or your loved one can stay engaged and active and how Visiting Angels of Woodbridge, CT can help.

One of the main reasons to stay active as you age is the added benefits of an active lifestyle. An active lifestyle can help you maintain your well-being and independence as you age. It’s more than staying physically active or getting your exercise in. It could also include activities that you enjoy and that benefit your mind and your body. Research has shown that older adults with an active lifestyle are less likely to develop dementia, heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer. They also tend to have a longer lifespan, are happier, and are less depressed. The reasons should be obvious, but participating in meaningful activities is infinitely helpful. Below are some activities you can consider to maintain an active lifestyle as you age.

Physical Activity

Seniors who engage in physical activity are often healthier and happier than their inactive counterparts. They need less medication and fewer doctor visits, resulting in an easier lifestyle. Use the activities below to keep your body active and strong and your brain healthy. Please follow the advice of your doctor before starting any of these activities.

Many of these activities can be done in groups, which will help the isolation and loneliness that seniors often feel as they age.

• Pickleball: This sport is easier to learn than Tennis and is one of the fastest growing sports in America. It’s especially popular among Baby Boomers. Pickleball is a racket or paddle sport where you play two or four players. Check your local senior center for more information.
• Tennis: Tennis gives a solid cardio workout and keeps the mind agile.
• Golf: Golf is a low-intensity sport perfect for people who have joint or mobility issues. You can go at a pace that works for you and it is an excellent social activity.
• Hiking: Studies show that spending 120 minutes out in nature a week is associated with good health and well-being. People have reported feeling less anxious and calm. Hiking will keep you moving as well as help your mental health.
• Camping: Vigorous sports aren’t the only option to stay active and engaged. Camping is good for those who want to relax and enjoy their time in nature.
• Swimming: Swimming is great for seniors who need low-impact exercise. You can pick the intensity level that’s best for you. Check out your local high school or YMCA for classes. Swimming is a great aerobic exercise that doesn’t add pressure on your hips.

There are many more options if you don’t find one here. Biking, Self-defense classes, dancing, and any exercise, just to name a few. The goal is to get out and get moving in any way you can.

Join a Club

Joining a club is a great way to get involved and be more social or community-minded. Visit your local senior center to see what clubs are available. You can also visit your local library to see what they have available as well. If you don’t find a club that interests you, try creating a club of your own. You could create a book club, a cooking club, a film club, or even a club that visits local museums and goes out to eat. Choose something interesting and create a Facebook page to generate local interest.

Spend time with family and friends

Connecting with family and friends is important to stave off loneliness and keep your mind active. Don’t wait until the Holidays to reach out. When connecting with family and friends, there are many activities you can do. You could play cards or other games. You also don’t have to physically be there to reap the benefits of interacting with family and friends. With the advent of Zoom and FaceTime, having a call with family has become easier than ever. You could also try reconnecting with old friends from high school or your college alumni association. Try different restaurants with your loved ones, and don’t forget to share your favorite music or things you find online.

Take a Class

Taking a class in something that interests you is a great way to stay physically and mentally active and engaged. You can take a class with a friend, family member, or all by yourself. Many community colleges or your local libraries offer free or discounted courses in cooking, art, dance, a different language, or computer classes. Also, finding a local instructor to learn or relearn how to play a musical instrument is a great way to stay engaged. Any way can find that will allow you to enjoy yourself and experience new things is the best way to stay active. If none of this interests you or your loved one, you could always try visiting local museums, as many have free group tours and educational programs.

Adopt new hobbies

Adopting new hobbies may seem tedious, but truly anything can become a hobby. For instance, gaming consoles have become a huge hit with the elderly. You or your loved one are still able to bowl, play tennis, or basketball if you aren’t able to physically anymore. Systems like Nintendo Wii are affordable and easy to learn. Also, making jewelry is another fun craft that can help with fine motor skills and provide a creative outlet. New hobbies are all around and are there to help improve your mental health and activity. If you’re not sure what hobby to choose, try googling “hobbies”.

So ultimately, many ways and activities will help you or your loved ones stay active and engaged as they age. The hardest part will be finding one that you enjoy the most. Even if you have to take baby steps and try small changes to start any move toward more activity, whether it is mentally or physically, is a step in the right direction. If you need help finding hobbies or activities to stay engaged, let Visiting Angels help.  We’ve been helping seniors in Woodbridge, CT for over 14 years. We provide thoughtful planning, engaging activities, and support to any who needs it. Contact us today at 203-298-9700 for a free consultation and discover how we can help you stay active and engaged as you or your loved one ages.