January Employee Spotlight: Brianna Wynn
Are you noticing the senior in your life falling into a rut of a routine? Nothing leads to fast deterioration of their health more than a lack of physical activity. However, it is also very common for elderly adults to fall victim to a dull spirit that ends up impacting their physical and mental health.
If you’re also looking for ways to help a senior in your life become more active, here are some ideas for fun and stimulating activities for older adults you can expose them to.
4 Fun Activities For Older Adults
Gardening
Regular physical activity is important not only for physical health but also for brain health. Hence, if your elderly loved one at home enjoys spending time outdoors, having them indulge in gardening is a wonderful way to incorporate physical activity into their routine.
Again, this doesn’t entail that they have to engage in advanced gardening activities. Basic tasks like watering, seed placement, and raking would also do. Not only will the activity arouse their senses, but it will also allow them to soak in some Vitamin D.
Dancing
Yes, you read it right. Even those with cognitive impairments or advanced dementia can greatly benefit from music and dance-centered activities. While music can help trigger positive memories and feelings, dancing can contribute to better cardiovascular health.
Many assisted living facilities also have a range of activities centered around the same idea. So, if the senior in your life loves dancing, consider enrolling them in ballroom classes or other forms of related gatherings or hire an instructor at home.
Pet Therapy
This is undeniably one of the best activities for older adults. If you have a pet at home, allow the senior in your life to bond with them, especially if they already have a knack for it. Spending time with pets and playing with them can be highly engaging for many older adults.
All in all, there are a number of emotional and physical benefits of pet therapy for seniors. Some of them are:
- Reduced levels of anxiety and depression
- Better social skills
- Reduced feelings of loneliness
- Lowered blood pressure
- Better mobility and slightly better levels of exercise
Cooking or Baking
While it may not seem like much but involving the seniors at home in the planning and preparation of meals can have a positive impact on their minds. You can also encourage them to cook or bake simple recipes such as pancakes or cookies.
If they’re foodies at heart and have often cooked in the past, include more complex menus in the routine. Engaging in a good baking or cooking routine with someone else can prove to be quite a stimulating activity for many older adults.
Wrapping Up!
While incorporating fun and stimulating activities at home is a wonderful idea, it may not always work for the elderly in your life. Sometimes, they need to be in an environment conducive to physical and mental activity. This is where assisted living can significantly help them get a grip on their life. So, if you’re looking for a facility to help your loved one make the best of their time, American Grand Assisted Living is what you’re looking for. Contact us now for a personalized tour of our comfortable suites.
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