Socialization is a huge part of becoming older but something that seniors lose focus on as they age. They may not want to go out as much, or they may lose interest in what they used to love. Luckily, there are so many ways for you to motivate your seniors to get out of the house and tons of activities for the elderly generations to enjoy. You may find that your loved one has stopped going out to do what they enjoy because they can no longer safely drive. This does happen, and it’s essential to find ways to work around that. One of the best things you can do is hire elder care to help a senior age in place. Elder care may help your senior stick to a routine, including going out to do activities to help keep a senior socialized throughout the week.

The gym is a good way to interact with other community members and make new acquaintances while getting some exercise in. There are so many advantages of going to the gym to make new friends as a senior and we will discuss them all here. This is the time to encourage your loved one to go to the gym.

Can Help Prevent Loneliness

Elder Care in Dulles VA

It is one of the best ways to socialize with people your age and prevent loneliness. This is something a senior can schedule into their week and become part of their routine. You will soon realize they have made connections they otherwise wouldn’t have.

Gym Involves Music or Reading

One of the best things about the gym is that there is tons of music. This can help stimulate happy memories and boost happy chemicals in the body. It is a fun way to get some tunes in or allow a senior to use an ipod to listen to their own music or audiobook.

Requires Physical Movements

Regular exercise becomes considerably more difficult as individuals age. Every senior needs to move to get to the gym but once they’re at the gym they can also hop on the machines to get their heart pumping. Keep in mind this is also a temperature controlled place which may make exercise more comfortable for your senior mom or dad.

Alternatives to Gym

So, the gym has some amazing benefits, and one of the nice things is there are tons of gyms and classes to choose from and almost any religion you can think of. You can find something you believe in and start attending as a guest. However, if your senior is unwilling or unable to go to the gym, here are a few other ideas for improving social engagement:

• Walking meetups: Create a group of senior friends and ensure they can get to a park to walk around. They may be able to meet in different locations every week. Elder care can accompany your senior on walks for their safety.
• Book clubs: Seniors with similar reading interests can gather at a local library and discuss their latest book selection.
• Craft groups: Many parks and recreation departments offer senior craft classes and other group activities that are low cost and sometimes free!

If you or an aging loved one is considering elder care in Dulles, VA or the surrounding areas, please contact the caring staff at Assisting Hands today. (703) 782-3655