Getting older doesn’t mean retiring to a rocking chair to watch TV and occasionally play Bingo. Instead it can be a time for adventure, plenty of stimulation, and a chance to learn new things. Sometimes mobility challenges are a consideration but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your life.
We’ve put together a list of 9 activities for seniors that are NOT Bingo and aren’t boring:
1. Check out a Group Exercise Class
Things like yoga, tai chi, or Feldenkrais, are fun and social ways to improve flexibility and balance, which are key to preventing falls in older adults. Some communities offer chair exercise classes, while others may offer water aerobics programs, which can appeal to seniors who are living with arthritis. Check out your local community centres for classes.
2. How about a Walking Club?
Walking around the neighbourhood is an easy way to stay active, and can be a great way to making friends. Some communities even arrange transportation so that club members can walk in a nearby park or on a walking path. Ask your local community centre to see if they offer a walking program.
3. Try your hand at Wii Sports
As we head into the winter months, walking outside may become less of an option. But there are still some fun things to do inside. You may not be able to shoot baskets anymore, but Nintendo’s interactive console of games, in which you move your body instead of just pressing buttons or using a joystick, can offer a nice alternative. There are a variety of games that the sports-minded seniors can play, including bowling, tennis, and golf, and basketball too.
If sports aren’t your thing there are many games where you can garden, swim, and make friends with your animal neighbours. Check out Animal Crossing.
4. Give your opinion at Book Clubs
Are you an avid reader? Then you’d probably love the opportunity to share their opinion about a book with others. Book clubs support seniors’ efforts to stay sharp and mentally alert, they also have a huge social element.
5. Share Your Life Story
There may be no activity for seniors that’s more meaningful than capturing their unique life story! This can be either in written form or by gathering your photos and mementos together in a scrapbook. Not only will you preserve a slice of history, but you also get the chance to reflect on and share you life experiences. Cool eh?
This one is a great winter project!
6. Keep Learning with Lectures & Continuing Education Classes
Learning something new everyday shouldn’t stop because you’re over 65! Expanding your knowledge base is a surefire way to stay mentally alert and engaged. Some communities provide on-site and even online lectures or continuing ed classes. Check out local school boards for their continuing education courses or universities for free lectures they offer for seniors.
7. Let your Creativity Shine in an Art Class
You’ve worked hard all your life to make a living and keep a home retirement can open the door to a newfound creativity. Watercolour, acrylic painting, drawing and sketching are all great ways to show off artistic expression. Making art in a group can be an enjoyable way to engage with others. Check out your local school board for adult continuing education classes. There are many courses to choose from. https://www.tdsb.on.ca/Adult-Learners/Learn4Life
8. Get out of the House - Field Trips & Excursions
No one wants to spend all their time at home, even when home! Check out a museum. Take in a movie. Be a tourist in your own city! Why not take a bus tour around and learn all the things that you never knew? Even a trip to the mall can be a wonderful way to check out the seasonal sights and sounds.
9. Pamper Yourself - Spa Days & Self-Care
Everyone knows that self-care is important — we even have a blog about it! https://www.canes.on.ca/blog/self-care-seniors
It’s just as important as ever for older adults to practice self care. Every senior deserves a chance to relax, learn something new, and enjoy retirement.
A spa day doesn’t have to break the bank! Grab a couple facial masks from you local pharmacy and give them a try. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how great you’ll feel after taking the time to pamper yourself.
Let us know if you try any of these or if there are others we should have included on our list.
#CANESCares
