Activities for Seniors to Stay Healthy
Staying active in retirement is good for your physical and mental health, and these activities could contribute to your well-being…and add some fun to your day!
You should always check with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program, but staying active is important at any age. There are also non-physical activities that can keep you healthy in other ways.
Outdoor activities for seniors
There are many levels of activity that can provide health benefits, particularly outdoors. One study at the University of Exeter found that people living in neighborhoods with more birds, shrubs and trees are less likely to suffer from depression, anxiety and stress.1 They can also be great for memory recall as you identify types of birds, plants, fish or rules.
- Birdwatching
- Gardening
- Fishing or boating
- Yoga
- Walking or hiking
- Golfing
- Photography
- Reading
- Visiting fairs, festivals, community events
- Biking
- Yard Games – bocce ball, volleyball, badminton, shuffleboard, horseshoes
- Archery
Indoor activities for senior health
Popular hobbies that are less strenuous can still improve heart health, mental alertness and patience as well as physical strength.
- Games – Bingo, cards, table games, etc.
- Yoga or aerobics
- Crafts – painting, knitting, crocheting, quilting
- Cooking or baking
- Letter writing
- Visiting art galleries
- Play music – an instrument or the radio!
Brain games for active seniors
Playing games that challenge you to think or remember can be fun and benefit your mental health. Memory loss can be a popular complaint about getting older, but here are a few ways to keep your mind sharp:
- Chess
- Crossword puzzles
- Sudoku
- Reading
- Mobile apps/games like Candy Crush and Brain Age
- Learn a new language
Social activities for seniors
Although many activities can be done solo, inviting friends along can foster a sense of community – and that social connection provides even more health benefits for you. Socializing can be fun, but it also encourages you to learn new skills, connect and stay active. Here are a few ideas for social activities you may like:
- Dancing
- Picnics
- Games and sports
- Yard Games – bocce ball, volleyball, badminton, shuffleboard, horseshoes
- Garden party
Regular exercise keeps your body stronger and able defend against illness by speeding up metabolism, improving immune system, bone density and blood pressure, and enhancing mobility and balance. Maintaining your brain health can improve your sleep, self-confidence and mood; not to mention it helps prevent memory loss and dementia.
It’s never too late to start exercising and staying active! Whether you’re planning for retirement or enjoying life after retirement, physical activity can make you feel sharper, more energetic and looking great.
SOURCES:
1 https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/02/170225102113.htm
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