As people age, they may worry about losing their independence because of physical problems or because of dementia. Unfortunately, those problems are the reality for many older adults. However, there are things that can lessen the chances that seniors will develop physical and cognitive problems.

The Alzheimer’s Association says there are three things that can improve brain health:

• Physical activity.
• Mental stimulation.
• Social engagement.

Keeping their brains and bodies strong doesn’t have to be difficult for seniors. In fact, it can be fun if they take up a hobby that combine all three. Wondering what hobbies could be helpful for both physical and cognitive health? Here are five ideas.

#1 Gardening

Gardening involves a lot of movement. Gardeners have to dig, bend, walk up and down rows, and carry equipment. Planting and weeding can really help seniors to work up a sweat. Gardening also involves mental stimulation since they’ll have to plan what and where to plant. To make gardening social, older adults could join a gardening club, attend gardening workshops, or use a community garden plot where they’ll see other people. An elder care provider can assist the senior with gardening tasks that are too difficult or that may cause injury. They can also drive the senior to a community garden or a workshop.

#2 Dancing

No matter what kind of dancing your aging relative enjoys, they’ll be moving. Most communities have places where seniors can take classes in just about any style of dance. Since a dance class involves learning new steps, it is also mentally stimulating. And, of course, dancing is more fun with other people. An elder care provider can drive the older adult to their dance classes. They might even help the person to practice steps at home!

#3 Playing Sports

Older adults who are physically capable could take up a new sport, like tennis or golf. Both offer them a chance to spend time with other people. Playing sports requires using the brain since there is strategy and quick thinking involved.

#4 Caring for a Dog

Dogs need exercise to stay healthy, so even if the older adult wont’ exercise for their own sake, they may be willing to go for walks to keep their beloved pooch healthy. Dogs naturally attract people who want to pet them or ask the owner questions about them, which provides opportunities for social interaction. An elder care provider can assist the senior to walk with the dog and to care for them at home, including assisting with feeding, watering, and other basic care.

#5 Volunteering

Volunteering is an excellent way for seniors to make connections with other people. Depending on the volunteer position, they can also involve physical activity. Older adults could help to stock shelves at a food pantry, which involves walking and light lifting. They could also walk dogs at the humane society or play with cats to help socialize them. An elder care provider can drive your aging relative to their volunteer position.

Sources

https://www.alz.org/brain-health/stay_mentally_socially_active.asp
https://www.aarp.org/health/brain-health/info-2017/stimulating-brain-games-fd.html
https://www.alz.org/brain-health/stay_physically_active.asp

If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Elder Care in Seminole, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 727-748-4211.