As we age, it is important to keep our bodies and minds active. This is especially true for seniors who may be living alone or have limited mobility. Taking part in activities that are both fun and engaging can help seniors stay active and healthy. Not only do these activities keep them physically active, but it also can help them stay mentally sharp and socially engaged.
Benefits of Engaging in Fun Activities for Seniors
There are many types of activities that seniors can enjoy. You can perform some activities with your senior at home, while others may be in a group setting at a senior center or health club. Whether it’s physical activity, mental stimulation, or social interaction, there is something for everyone.
It’s best for seniors to take part in a broad range of these activities to enjoy the full benefit. For example, low-impact exercise classes specially designed for seniors are a great physical activity. Such exercises also prime the brain for mental stimulation from activities such as board games.
Playing games to maintain sharpness provides social interaction that keeps seniors emotionally strong. So, by engaging in a broad range of range of fun activities, seniors gain greater benefits than just the sum of the parts from each activity.
Exercises for Seniors
Exercises help seniors maintain physical strength, flexibility, and balance. The exercise could be as simple as walking around the neighborhood. This has the added benefit of being out in nature, along with the opportunities for social interaction with neighbors. Social interaction is also a benefit of exercises classes for the elderly.
One great form of exercise for the elderly that’s often overlooked is gardening. It has the added benefit of low-cost organic foods. And gardening gives seniors a sense of accomplishment.
Games for the Elderly
Board games, card games, and puzzles are great for seniors to keep their minds sharp while engaging in a social activity. Research suggests crossword puzzles actually slow cognitive decline. One of the great things about being a senior is that playing is good for you!
Intellectual Activities for Seniors
Learning new things is a way to keep the mind sharp. There are many websites and apps that offer free courses. These days, you can even learn to play the piano on YouTube.
Social Activities for Seniors
Your local senior citizens’ center may have activities like arts and crafts. These activities give seniors a sense of accomplishment. They also provide much needed social interaction while serving as an outlet for creativity. If a senior loves to read, a book club may be a great option.
Technology-Based Activities for Seniors
Technology is great for maintaining social interaction, providing stimulating games, and offering courses. Social media apps like Facebook can be a great way to maintain contact with children, grandchildren, and other family members.
Conclusion
If you’re a caregiver for an elderly family member, you may wish you had more time to help your loved one take part in all these activities. But you may have to balance career and other family responsibilities. At Advanced Health Care, let our professional caregivers take some of the burden from you. We enjoy playing cards with seniors, taking them to events, and helping with walks around the neighborhood.
Whatever your needs, Advanced Health Care offers a custom-tailored plan to give your senior the best possible quality of life. For our support and resources, call us today at (262) 236-9194. We look forward to meeting you.
