As your aging parents or loved one gets older, their body can become a little slower than it used to be. But that doesn’t mean they still don’t have some fuel in the engine. Maintaining an active lifestyle and engaging in social activities can help improve a seniors’ overall health and even make them feel young again. So if you’re looking for some fun activities to arrange for your elderly loved ones, here are some ideas that are perfect for seniors, and are sure to bring some zest back into their life.
Fitness Class
The perfect way to introduce more exercise back into your loved one’s life and to help them engage more with others is to sign them up for a senior’s fitness class. If they’re currently living in a senior’s center, ask one of the managers to set up a weekly exercise class right in the building. There are lots of popular classes that are now tailored to seniors like yoga, aqua fit, and tai chi, that will help keep their muscles moving and their cardiovascular system in check. Plus, it’s a great way for seniors to socialize more with others.
Live Music
A night of live jazz, big band, or classic rock is sure to get everyone moving in their seats and maybe even up and dancing on the floor. Taking them out to a local music event, hiring a live band, or even throwing on their favourite music can quickly lift your loved one’s spirit by bringing back happy memories and giving them a chance to dance and sing along to music they enjoy.
Monthly Birthday Parties
Another great social activity perfect for seniors is attending birthday parties. Monthly parties can be organized in their home care facility or amongst their network of friends to help lift their spirits and gather people together to celebrate and have some fun.
Sculpting Class
Art classes can provide many benefits to seniors. A sculpting class or painting class is an excellent way for them to express themselves, get creative, silly and messy while sharing new positive experiences with others.
Wine Tasting
Seniors love to learn new things. So why not entice their need for knowledge along with a few great glasses of wine. Arranging a wine tasting event can be a great way to add some excitement to the mix. You can arrange to have a professional sommelier come in to host the event or look for one that you can attend in your area. This can get your loved ones out and about, away from their couch, while learning something new about something they love.
Volunteering
Many seniors can easily fall into a state of depression because feel like they’ve lost the ability to contribute or do something meaningful. Getting your loved one involved in some volunteering activities can be an effective way to make them feel more connected to their community while boosting up their sense of contribution and purpose. Volunteering can also allow them to feel more accomplished and proud about giving back to others in need. Some great volunteer opportunities for seniors involve fostering pets, teaching children to read, knit clothing for charity, and baking for fundraisers or outreach programs.
Maintaining a life of exercise and activity can ensure your loved one enjoys their golden years as much as possible. So explore some of these fun options and find what gets your loved ones engaged and having fun.
We at MEDability offer inspired healthcare solutions.