Whether your senior loved one is looking to further their education or is in desperate need of something more physically challenging, we’ve got a list of the best hobbies for retirees.
Hobbies for retirees are often seen as bland and limited to board games and bingo. Luckily, so many mentally and physically stimulating options are available for seniors; there’s no doubt your aging parent will find something that perfectly suits their unique personality. Take a look at our list of the best hobbies for retirees below:
Consider Hitting the Books
Gone are the days when age prohibited you from returning to school and studying. Sure, enrolling in a degree program may sound pointless at an advanced age, but enrolling in a shorter course on a topic that sparks your senior loved one’s interest might be the ticket. Nothing keeps the mind active and the conscience accountable, like learning something new and knowing that there are milestones to be reached, such as a certificate of completion or even a diploma. Completing an educational course can also boost your senior’s confidence. Beatitudes Campus in Arizona is known for the tremendous lifelong learning programs they offer to its residents.
Book a Plain, Train, or Bus Ride
While traveling may not work for all seniors, it’s worth considering if your aging parent is still independent and mobile. Traveling has so many benefits, not only for seniors. Exploring new places opens up the mind and allows us to meet new people, eat new dishes, step out of our comfort zones and embrace the unknown. Whether your senior prefers a more local getaway or would like to travel across the pond – make an effort to assist them where possible. The pro’s undoubtedly outweighed the cons, especially if your senior is healthy and independent enough to do so.
Consider Volunteering
Helping out at a local shelter or non-profit is a great way to encourage social interaction and promote feelings of groundedness. The endorphin high of knowing that you are helping to make a difference in the lives of others can provide your senior with a confidence boost. There are so many incredible causes to sign to as a volunteer, providing a sense of purpose and the opportunity to learn new skills. The benefits of volunteering are endless. Glory Days offers a Senior Day Program to give caregivers a much-needed break, while Pawsitive Friendships provides pet therapy to seniors and children with autism. These are only two examples in a literal sea of amazing causes that one can sign up to.
Get Outdoors
It’s no secret that sunshine is good for the soul, but getting outdoors at least once a day can do wonders for your senior’s mind and body. Fresh air, blue skies, and the sound of birds chirping in the distance have been known to turn any frown upside down. Whether you accompany your senior on a daily walk or they prefer to cycle a familiar route, getting outside regularly should be a hobby for every senior.
Step Outside Your Comfort Zone
The point is to immerse yourself in something you’ve never done. Encouraging your senior to join a dance class, attend a book club meet-up, or even attend music lessons can be a fun and new way to bring some spice to an otherwise dull routine. No one likes getting stuck in a rut, and while there is much to be said for the comfort that routine and predictability bring, introducing some unknown elements in a controlled way can benefit your senior’s mental and physical well-being.
