In our later years, we may find we have more time to take part in the activities we love or even try something completely new. However, health and mobility issues may offer obstacles to living life to the fullest.
Some activities may be ruled out altogether whilst others need adaptations in order for elderly people to get involved. This varies from person to person, with some individuals still skydiving and kayaking their way into old age.
If you are looking for activities for older people geared towards staying both physically and mentally active, take a look at our list of top nine things for seniors to do. You or your loved one may find inspiration for a new hobby to try or reawaken an old interest.
Top 9 things for seniors to do
From putting on your dancing shoes to discussing a recent bestseller with like-minded individuals, there are plenty of activities for older people and, indeed, anyone to try:
1. Yoga
Yoga has many benefits for both the mind and body, soothing worries away and stretching stiff muscles. Regularly practising yoga can improve mobility and help strengthen muscles and bones. These benefits are especially important as we age when flexibility and strength decrease, which affects our ability to carry out activities of daily living.
Yoga can also be practised at a range of different levels and physical abilities. There is a yoga class for everyone, from chair yoga and beginners sessions to more advanced, physically demanding practice.
2. Meditation
Similarly to yoga, meditation has a calming effect on the mind and body, which is perfect for individuals living with anxiety, heart-related health conditions, and more. Being able to steady your mind is a useful skill that helps you adapt to different situations in life. Meditation is not a physically demanding activity, so it is suitable for all.
3. Book club
One of the best indoor activities for seniors is joining a book club. Reading is a relaxing hobby that is known to melt stress away. Discussing a thrilling new novel with like-minded people improves both cognitive and social skills in one go. Joining a book club also allows you to meet new people and make friends.
4. Singing
Another way to feel part of a community while taking part in a fun activity is by joining a local choir or singing group. Not only will this lead to making new friends and potentially visiting new places if the choir tours events, but remembering lyrics and singing songs is uplifting and can improve mood, lung function, and memory.
5. Dancing
Try giving a dance class a whirl for individuals who are a little more active. There are many dancing styles suitable for various energy levels, from a slow waltz to a lively jive. Dancing is a great cardio workout, improves coordination, and trains the memory to remember steps. There is also the added social aspect of dancing, such as being invited to dances and participating in events.
6. Quizzes
Keeping your brain active is as important as staying physically fit. Quizzes, bingo, or games nights are great ways to ensure that the old grey matter is getting a workout. Individuals who enjoy word searches, crossword puzzles, sudoku, and more may benefit from attending a weekly pub or community hall quiz and working together as a team to earn the top spot.
7. Lectures
Life is all about learning; this doesn’t stop as we enter old age. Individuals interested in a specific subject matter might be keen on attending lectures, seminars, or discussions related to that topic. Expanding on the knowledge they already have or learning new theories is ideal for keeping the brain active and eyes open to the world around them.
8. Cooking
For those living with the early stages of dementia and eating issues, it may be a good idea to enrol in local cooking classes or try online workshops, with the help of a live-in carer. If trying out a cooking class in person, a live-in carer can accompany you or your loved one or even simply provide transportation. If following an online cooking class, a live-in carer can get all the ingredients prepared before starting, assist as a sous chef, or just offer companionship.
9. Creative classes
From painting classes, craft workshops, knitting groups, and more, plenty of creative classes are available for elderly people to dabble in. Getting creative can help ease worries and focus the mind on more relaxing and leisurely activities. There is also the added joy of being able to create beautiful handmade gifts for friends and family.
The benefits of physical activities
Participating in physical activities provides many benefits for older people. Daily physical activity can help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve physical and mental health in general.
NHS guidelines stipulate that older adults aged over 65 should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity a week. Typically considered old-age activities, boules, gentle walking, and water aerobics are designed to be low-impact and safe for seniors to take part in.
Our guide provides some easy ways for older adults to improve their physical fitness.
The benefits of cognitive activities
Regularly participating in cognitive activities such as board games, puzzles, chess, and more have been shown to stimulate brain function and improve memory and other cognitive skills. Exercising the brain is vital for people at risk of developing dementia and other health conditions associated with cognitive decline. Cognitive activities can also help with social and communication skills, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Other activities can help
There are a range of other activities that have additional benefits for older people and provide advantages to cognitive and physical health, including:
- Day trips – a change of scenery can help to lift the mood and inspire individuals long after they return home.
- Volunteering – an hour or two a week volunteering for a charity, or on a local project can offer social stimulus as well as the warm feeling gained from giving back to the community.
- Computer literacy – like it or not technology is always advancing. Becoming more computer literate can help with staying in touch with loved ones and carrying out household admin with ease.
- Gardening – this hobby offers so many benefits, from gentle functional exercise, exposure to sunlight and increased vitamin D absorption to the satisfaction of growing your own produce.
How Trinity Homecare can help
With Trinity Homecare’s live-in care services, it couldn’t be easier to take up new activities or revisit old hobbies. A live-in carer can help facilitate an individual’s interests, from providing transport to classes to sourcing equipment and materials, ensuring your loved one lives life to the fullest. Trinity Homecare can perfectly match your loved one with a live-in carer who will not only provide support with health needs but also offer assistance with the activities they enjoy.
Trinity Homecare is a fully managed care agency with an ‘Outstanding’ CQC rating, placing Trinity amongst the top 4% of all nationwide care companies in England. With this in mind, you can rest assured that your loved one will receive the highest standard of care and specialist support.
If you have any questions about arranging live-in care, simply get in touch with our helpful and knowledgeable care team.
Arranging nationwide live-in care with Trinity is straightforward. Simply follow these five steps:
- Call our care team
- Undergo a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your care needs and arrange a care assessment
- After the assessment, a plan of care is created
- A well suited carer is found and placed
- Care can be adapted at any time
