Whether due to mobility concerns or other physical limitations, it can become more difficult to get out and about as we get older. This can sometimes limit the number of activities older people can participate in and can even lead to feelings of loneliness or isolation.
However, just because we may be spending more time indoors doesn’t mean that we can’t still have fun and engaging experiences. There are many enjoyable activities for older people that can be done from the comfort of home.
Here we’ll explore 10 fun and engaging activities that can be enjoyed by the elderly, whether they’re spending time with family or enjoying their own company.
Drawing and painting
Drawing and painting is not only a wonderfully creative outlet but it is also a fantastic activity for improving mental health and mood. Being creative can increase cognitive function and enhance motor skills. Interestingly, for those who have tremors due to health conditions such as Parkinson’s, painting and drawing can reduce tremors due to the relaxing nature of the activity.
If your loved one finds it challenging to paint and draw due to difficulty gripping pencils or brushes, there are extra large pencils and easy-grip paint brushes available. You can also encourage them to use their hands to paint or try colouring books and paint-by-number sets.
Lego
Lego is an excellent activity for older people, particularly those who have worked in the trade industry. It can help bring back muscle memory of crafting and creating things. You can buy your loved one an elaborate Lego set that they can build themselves or you can simply provide a variety of different pieces to have fun with. For those who find it difficult to use the smaller Lego pieces, Duplo is a great alternative.
Dancing
While it may not always be easy for some elderly people to get up and about, dancing is a great way to improve cardiovascular health, strength, balance, cognition and mood. You may be surprised at the positive impact music can have on your loved one, even if you think they may not be up for it at the start.
Dancing is also a fantastic social activity, which can be done at home or in a group setting. Age UK runs dance classes for older people, but there are plenty of other dance groups that cater to the elderly as well.
Baking
Baking is a fun and creative activity that is also great for mental health and well-being. It allows people of all ages to express their creativity, reminisce about past celebrations and important milestones, and connect with loved ones by baking something special for them.
Baking can also help improve appetite, which can become an issue as we get older. There are many other benefits, too. Baking reduces stress and anxiety and gives a sense of accomplishment. You can help your loved one by buying baking supplies and ingredients and assisting them in the kitchen if necessary.
Go to the library
The library is a great place for the elderly to connect with their community and engage in various activities. They can attend social clubs, participate in reading groups, or simply pick up a book to read or listen to an audiobook.
Libraries offer a wide range of books, including large print or giant print books, that are accessible to older people or people with visual impairments. Your loved one can also engage in intergenerational activities by selecting books for their grandchildren to read or by joining a book club.
With books often needing to be returned every 6 weeks, it can become a nice habit to visit the library regularly.
Spa days and self-care
Taking care of oneself is an important part of maintaining good mental and physical health. Spa days can be a great way for elderly people to relax and indulge in some self-care. Most spas offer accessible options and social activities, where older people can engage with other people and enjoy treatments such as massages, facials, and aromatherapy.
If getting out of the house is not an option, you can create a spa experience at home by buying some candles, a bubble bath or having a mobile therapist come to your loved one’s home.
Educational talks
Learning is a lifelong pursuit and taking advantage of educational opportunities can be both fun and fulfilling for older people. Many cities offer educational talks and events, which can be a great way to learn something new and interesting.
You can help your loved one by finding events that match their interests and abilities, such as wildlife talks or cultural events. Additionally, organisations such as the National Trust offer speakers that can come to your loved one’s home. This can be a great option for people who cannot travel or prefer to learn in a familiar environment.
Film nights
Watching movies can be a fun and relaxing activity for older people. It can also be a great way to bond with them. However, some may have difficulty following new storylines or find the length of the movie overwhelming.
In such cases, it can be beneficial to watch an old classic movie they are familiar with. This could bring back memories of their younger days and spark interesting conversations. Some cinemas screen old films and you can also try places like Cineworld, Odeon, and BFI.
Flower arranging
Flower arranging is an excellent activity for older people, as it is both calming and visually stimulating. Unlike art, there is no pressure to make it look a certain way. This way, your loved one can simply be creative and enjoy the process.
Flower arranging is also a great way to improve hand-eye coordination and reminisce about fond memories. You can start with fake flowers, and if they enjoy it, you can buy fresh flowers from a florist or garden centre.
Chair yoga
Yoga has several health benefits, including improving balance, reducing stress, and increasing mobility. Chair yoga is an accessible form of yoga for those who have mobility issues as it can be done in a seated position. Many local yoga classes cater to elderly people, and you can also find videos online that you can follow along with from the comfort of your home.
How Prestige Can Help
Engaging in social activities and hobbies can have tremendous benefits for the elderly, including improving their physical and mental well-being, reducing stress, and making new connections within their communities.
At Prestige, our professional home carers understand the value of social activities and are always available to help people participate in activities they love. Whether it’s baking, going to the library, or even trying something new like flower arranging or chair yoga, our carers can provide the support and encouragement the elderly need to thrive.
Contact us today to learn more and discover how we can help your loved one enjoy a fulfilling and meaningful life.
