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Healthy Hobbies for Seniors

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, many people promise to lead healthier lifestyles through diet, exercise, and daily activities. As the months go by and hard-to-break habits start to creep back in, it can be tempting to abandon our resolutions. It’s especially important for seniors to take steps into leading a healthier lifestyle in order to live longer. Here are some healthy hobbies to try in the coming months.

Gardening

Gardening is the perfect outdoor activity, especially in the spring and summer. However, older adults can prepare for the gardening season during the wintertime by growing small plants, like herbs or tomatoes, indoors. Gardening is known to help people, especially older adults, cope with stress, depression, and loneliness. Not only does gardening help strengthen mental health, it also promotes a healthy lifestyle through activeness and exercise. Gardening can also be modified for adults who are unable to bend over or stand for long periods of time.  

Playing Cards with a Group

Research has shown that older adults who consistently participate in group activities, like playing bridge or bingo, improve their cognitive abilities and overall happiness. Most retirement communities have group programs that engage their residents in games like dominoes or scrabble. Consider hosting a game evening with your family or friends and try playing together each week.

Volunteering

Take a few hours or an afternoon and dedicate your time to others. Volunteering gives us the chance to interact with different age groups and people who come from different backgrounds. Try and think about your interests and find a volunteer opportunity that fits well. Schools, homeless shelters, churches, and other non-profits are always accepting volunteers who want to donate their time for a good cause.

Enjoying the Outdoors

Exercising is crucial in leading a healthy life. Thankfully, there are a lot of varieties of exercise, so you should be able to find something that works for you. Consider taking a walk outside with a friend or family member. But, always remember to check the weather and dress appropriately while outside. If the weather is working against you, take a trip to your local recreation center for an exercise class like gentle yoga or water aerobics.

We’re wishing you a healthy and happy start to the New Year! At our Carespring skilled nursing and rehabilitation Dayton, Cincinnati, and Northern Kentucky, we want all of our patients and their families to live long and healthy lives. Contact us today to find out more about our care options