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Regardless of age, we all need some activities that can stimulate us and keep us healthy. But as we grow older, finding these activities can be quite a challenge. A sixty-year-old would have different physical capabilities and interests to that of a five-year-old. Taking these into consideration, there are a few activities that the elderly can engage in – particularly those who live in care homes. Here are some of them: 

Exercising

Physical exercise is always a top recommendation to maintain a healthy lifestyle, no matter the age. Exercise comes in different forms as it varies depending on your fitness level. For instance, one might find a mile walk to be a breeze, while another might find it extremely challenging. It’s good to note that exercise is generally safe for most people, even for seniors undergoing in-home hospice care. However, it’s important to be aware of their physical conditions before suggesting any form of exercise. When in doubt, always consult your doctor. 

For seniors, it’s generally recommended to have at least 2.5 hours of aerobic exercise per week. It’s highly encouraged for them to take short walks or participate in yoga and pilates sessions to keep them strong and active. There are multiple benefits to exercising at this age which include better mood, improved balance, and enhanced cognitive function. And more importantly, it delays and even prevents the onset of diseases.  

Playing Games 

In a care home, it’s easy to fall into the trap of inactivity. That’s why seniors should start playing games. We know what you’re thinking – games? But who says playing games is just for kids? The elderly can play games, too! Games aren't only about the fun – they’re also about the mental exercise that comes with it. 

Puzzles, in particular, can keep their minds sharp and engaged. They have other mental health benefits too, like improved short-term memory and problem-solving skills. These puzzles come in different forms. You have jigsaw puzzles, sudoku, and crossword puzzles. 

And to keep their social batteries recharged, have some board games ready to be played with at your care home. Board games like chess and Scrabble provide seniors with hours of entertainment, keeping them engaged. 

Engaging in Creative Activities 

No matter your age, you must allow your creative juices to flow. Engaging in the arts is one way to keep the elderly active and allow them to show their artistic side. For example, you can start painting classes or sessions in your care home. Even sculpting works, too! While not everyone may be an artistic genius, that doesn’t mean that they can’t participate. They don’t have to replicate the works of Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci – art is all about the fun and creativity that come with it!

On top of these, dabbling into one’s artistic side comes with other benefits. One of them is enhanced hand-eye coordination and cognitive function, which are both crucial to the elderly. It’s essential that you provide seniors with the necessary art materials that allow them to participate in these activities.  

Gardening

Seniors shouldn’t just have to participate in activities inside the care home, they must have some outdoor activities, too! To enjoy nature and all the greenery, allow them to take part in gardening – a relaxing activity for the elderly. Whether it’s planting flowers or maintaining a garden, this activity will surely provide them with a sense of fulfillment. And we all need light in our life – a bonus is that mental health boost that comes with experiencing nature in all its glory by soaking in all that natural light and fresh air. 

Music Therapy

Nothing soothes one’s ears more than the sound of lovely music. Music therapy is a powerful tool that reduces stress and improves the mood of the elderly, which is why the health community has considered it an effective form of therapy. 

This type of therapy comes in different forms: listening to music, playing instruments, singing, and composing music. The best part about music therapy is that you can also incorporate music into other activities, like exercise, to add an element of excitement. Alternatively, seniors can listen to podcasts while doing similar activities to keep them engaged. 

Technology

Technology shouldn’t just be reserved for the younger generations, the elderly can work with it too. Take some time to teach seniors how to use mobile devices to communicate with their loved ones through video chat or social media. There are also some senior-friendly games and applications that the elderly can use to keep them engaged. 

In Conclusion 

While it may be a challenge to find unique and engaging activities in care homes, it’s not impossible. From exercising to engaging in music therapy, there are all sorts of activities that seniors can participate in to keep them physically and mentally active. Let the seniors try these activities in your care home – the next thing you know, you might just see bigger smiles on their faces.