People tend to think that aging is synonymous with slowing down, but that’s far from the truth. With a modern focus on quality of life, older adults are encouraged to embrace their lives by staying engaged in ways that promote both physical and mental well-being. Even though older adults don’t venture out as much, staying active at home offers many opportunities to improve strength and mobility, sharpen minds, and create a greater sense of purpose.
If you wonder what activities your loved one can do at home, continue reading as we share senior activity ideas at home.
Senior Activity Ideas At Home
Physical Activities for Mobility and Strength
Older adults are encouraged to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week as recommended by the CDC. Starting with 5 minutes of activities like walking around the house or seated mobility exercises can make a difference.
It’s also recommended to strengthen muscles through exercises using light weights, everyday items like water bottles, or exercise bands at least two days per week. Staying physically active is essential for maintaining mobility and strength, helping seniors feel confident and empowered in their daily lives.
For balance, following home exercise videos focusing on balance or gentle yoga can reduce the risk of falls. Without that preventative measure, one in every four older adults falls every year, and around 37% of them need medical attention. That being said, following these physical senior activity ideas at home is crucial to keep your elderly parents safe to age in their own homes.
Cognitive and Mental Engagement Activities
In general, these cognitive and mental activity ideas for seniors at home work similarly to how physical exercise benefits the body. The more active the mind, the healthier it becomes. For example, engaging in memory-based activities helps improve working memory, which is essential for understanding, learning, and processing information. Activities that require deeper thought stimulate the brain’s frontal region, encouraging the formation of new neural connections.
But who says cognitive and mental activities have to be boring? Through memory games like puzzles, crosswords, or board games, your parents can spend their time doing something exciting in the company of a professional caregiver, friends, or other family members.
Creative and Recreational Activities
To make things more exciting, our next activity idea involves something more creative and entertaining. Arts and crafts like painting, or knitting can help seniors to express their creative side while keeping their minds sharp at the same time. Moreover, playing a musical instrument or simply listening to their favorite music can stimulate memory and emotions that are powerful for cognitive health.
Try experimenting with new recipes alongside your foodie loved ones, or take a trip down memory lane by preparing cherished family recipes passed down through generations to keep traditions alive. When the weather permits, head outside and encourage your parents to start a small garden for their favorite vegetables. Gardening is not only therapeutic but also provides physical activity and a rewarding sense of accomplishment.
While staying physically and mentally active is important, successful aging also heavily relies on maintaining meaningful social connections. That’s why one of our final senior activity suggestions is to engage with others who share similar interests. Encourage your loved ones to join local groups, participate in game nights, or watch movies together. To combat loneliness when no one is nearby, reaching out to distant friends and family through phone or video calls can make a big difference.
Role of In-Home Caregivers in Encouraging Activities
When trying to incorporate our senior activity ideas at home, professional in-home caregivers play a crucial role in keeping your loved ones engaged. You can count on them to accompany and support your parents during these activities, making it more enjoyable and less isolating. More importantly, caregivers ensure the safety of your loved ones during those activities and beyond to prevent any unwanted accidents.
You need to remember, though, that not all these activities are suitable for your seniors’ abilities and preferences. Worry not; An Answered Prayer will come up with personalized care and activities that are truly unique for your loved ones. Our caregivers will suggest new ideas and resources to keep their daily routines stimulating and fulfilling.
Resources for Additional Inspiration
Before getting started, you need to find the right resources that can facilitate these activities. Luckily, there are plenty of online resources these days to help. To guide your loved ones in the physical department, follow these online exercise videos designed for seniors from the National Institute on Aging’s YouTube channel or other trusted organizations and health providers.
As for cognitive and creativity-related activities, you need to provide them with physical kits like painting sets, knitting supplies, or the games themselves. Our tip is to find one specially made for older adults, as they are equipped with bigger texts or pictures and other thoughtful designs to meet the needs of your loved ones.
Lastly, they should be encouraged to join local senior activity groups for social interaction and shared interests. Even if your loved ones are having a hard time going outside, don’t be discouraged. These days, many virtual senior activity groups open up new possibilities for engaging, enjoyable activities that can be accessed anytime and anywhere.
End Note
Your loved ones’ golden period starts with staying active, engaged, and connected, even within the comfort of home. By following senior activity ideas at home that we’ve provided, your loved ones can improve their overall health and well-being and, eventually, their quality of life. With the support of family members, professional caregivers, and accessible resources, aging at home can be exciting and fulfilling.
Don’t wait. Encourage your beloved seniors to try something new and contact An Answered Prayer to support them through these activities and more today.
