If the senior loved one in your life is in a rut when it comes to daily routines, take this as a sign it’s time to mix things up with some new activities. What’s also good about doing this is getting the opportunity to explore options that are enjoyable and physically and mentally beneficial at the same time. Keep reading to discover some ideas for fun activities you can do with your loved one.
Doing Arts & Crafts Projects
Let your loved one’s creativity flow by planning or suggesting crafts or art-based projects you can do together. The sky’s the limit with activities of this nature, which are beneficial because they keep the brain focused and boost fine motor skills. Making jewelry, drawing, painting, sculpting, scrapbooking, and creating wearable gifts for other family members and friends are just some of the many arts and crafts activities you can choose from.
Exercising
Show your loved one that exercise doesn’t have to be a dreaded daily task. In fact, with the right approach, exercise can be fun and beneficial for both of you. Taking daily walks around the neighborhood or at a favorite local park can do wonders for multiple parts of the body, including the heart, joints, bones, and even the brain, thanks to a boost in circulation. Exercise-based activities can also include:
• Yoga, Pilates, or tai chi
• Water-based activities such as swimming and water aerobics
• Video games requiring players to get up and move
Learning Something New
There’s no age limit on learning. Help your loved one stimulate the parts of the brain responsible for learning and acquiring new skills by finding mutually enjoyable ways to learn together. Many community colleges offer free or discounted classes. You can also explore online learning opportunities. Learning-based activities for both you and your loved one can also involve:
• Learning to play a musical instrument
• Discovering new hobbies
• Learning a new language together
Gardening
Your loved one doesn’t need to have great strength or agility to reap the many rewards of gardening. All you have to do is set up a garden with flowers, fruits, veggies, or herbs in a way that keeps everything easily accessible. You and your loved one can share the tending duties and enjoy quality time together. Plus, you can make tasty, healthy meals from what you grow together.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of elderly home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
Cooking & Baking
Speaking of making meals, cooking is another activity you and your loved one can enjoy together. If you steer your loved one toward healthy, nutrient-rich options, the meals you make can offer an assortment of mind-body benefits as well. Baking can be just as fun, productive, and socially stimulating, especially if you invite other family members to be part of the activity.
If your parent needs regular help with preparing nutritious meals, a home caregiver can be a wonderful source of support. Living independently is important for seniors who want to maintain a high quality of life. For some, this simply means receiving help with tasks that have become more challenging to manage over time. Even when families have the best intentions, they may not have the time to provide the care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. If your loved one needs help for a few hours a day or a few days a week, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of respite care Tucson seniors can depend on.
Pampering
Treat your loved one and yourself to activities that are both therapeutic and relaxing. Massage therapy sessions, spa treatments, beauty makeovers, and skin rejuvenation treatments are just some of the many options to consider. Activities of this nature are beneficial because being more relaxed is good for both you and your loved one.
Engaging in these types of enjoyable activities can enhance your loved one’s overall wellbeing, and so can having the help of a compassionate caregiver. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional at-home care. Tucson, AZ, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. If you need professional home care for your loved one, our Care Managers are just a phone call away. Reach out to Home Care Assistance today at (520) 276-6555.