Many people lose their mobility and the ability to do a lot of things on their own as they get older. This can lead to them getting bored and losing interest in life. Whether you are taking care of your parents, the grandchild of an older citizen, or the caregiver for someone, it is important to get them involved in activities and hobbies. This will make sure that their moods are boosted, they are having fun with life, and they stay engaged with the world around them.
Below are just a few fun and interactive activities you can do with senior citizens that are exciting and healthy.
Read to them and with them
Reading is not only a fun way to pass the time, but it is a healthy thing to do with seniors as well. It can help them keep their brain active and engaged so that they can work that muscle. It helps to improve their memory, reduces stress, improves their sleep patterns, and delays cognitive issues such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Grab a book that they really enjoy and take turns reading it out loud, read magazines together and catch up on the latest gossip, listen to audiobooks, etc. You can even help them organize a book club which will allow them the ability to read and socialize at the same time.
Explore hobbies together
It is really important for older adults to find a hobby or two that they really enjoy doing. There are plenty of activities that do not require the person to have to get up and move around too much that still allows them to stay active. Explore hobbies such as creating new recipes and cooking them, learning a new language, knitting, gardening, etc. Hobbies help to keep the mind active and prevent them from getting bored on a daily basis.
Help to get their bodies moving through exercise
Even if the older adult is not particularly mobile, there are still some exercises that they can do to help get their bodies moving and blood pumping. They can move whether they are sitting or standing and they will experience great health benefits as well as mood benefits. There are even moves and exercises that can be done with a cane or a walker that can help get the heart rate up and reduce swelling in parts of the body like the feet and ankles.
Take them outside whenever the weather permits
It is so important that the older adult in your care does not spend all of their time inside sitting on the couch. Get them outside whenever the weather allows you too so they can get some vitamin D. Getting in touch with nature is also very relaxing and can really help to boost their mood. Even if all you can do is take them outside on the porch or in a chair on the lawn, the change of scenery and fresh air is a great activity to do as often as you can.
Puzzles and games
Games and puzzles are a great way for not only the person you are caring for to have fun but you as well. There will be lots of laughs and great conversations over a puzzle or a game. You can play one on one or have some happy visitors come over and you will have a blast. It is a great way to pass the time and helps to keep the brain working and exercising those muscles.
Give back to the community
One way to help an older adult feel better and as though they are still a valuable and important part of the community is to give back to the community. Whether the adult is able to get up and move or if they are homebound or have to be in a wheelchair, there are plenty of ways you can give back. Contact charities, hospitals, churches, etc., that are near to you and find out if there is something you and your charge can do to help give back.
The person you are taking care of has lived a long life and deserves to continue to enjoy life as they age. Any of the items on this list will help them remain active mentally and physically and will give you great memories at the same time.
