Staying active is an integral part of living a healthy, long life. Here are 6 Ways to Keep Your Elderly Parents Active.
Today, we're the oldest we've ever been. We never stop getting older, and this includes our parents. Some of us have kept busy our entire lives, refusing to let our age slow us down. Others aren't so fortunate, halted in their path due to mobility issues or health conditions.
6 Ways to Keep Your Elderly Parents Active
Nursing Homes
The objective of a nursing home is to offer your parents a safe, caring place to live. It's tough to know how to find the right type of environment for their needs, especially when they have certain conditions or impairments. If your loved one has early-stage dementia or Alzheimer’s, then looking at memory care apartments is recommended. For others, assisted living apartments will be more suitable. There are a host of living arrangements available, so take a look at all the options to figure which will be most suitable for your family member.
Nature Trips
Plan a trip to a serene nature location nearby you if your parents enjoy nature and the great outdoors.
A short trek on a nice nature path can do wonders for anyone's mental health. They'll be able to enjoy a scenic route while exercising. Bird watching or fishing are other great ways to squeeze in some exercise. Your parents will feel better afterwards, and you'll feel good knowing you helped. If you're wondering why do old people sleep so much, this increased physical activity may help regulate their sleep patterns and keep them energized.
Play Bingo
Who doesn't enjoy bingo? This is an exciting game that anyone can play and enjoy.
The reason bingo clubs are so popular among elderly people is because they offer an enjoyable way to socialize with others (and perhaps win some prizes in the process). Many seniors don't realize that by doing so, they're working out their mind. There are many community centers and local organizations that host bingo events for the elderly.
If your parent hasn't tried attending one, consider taking them. They'll enjoy the socialization and adrenaline involved with winning a game.
Local Lunch Clubs
These clubs will also keep your parents up and moving. Whether they formed the club themselves or were invited to one, encourage them to attend. This is a great way for them to stay occupied and keep their minds busy. Many of these lunch clubs involve activities like board games, crafts, writing sessions, reading, or gym courses. Look for the ones that offer a light form of exercise.
Hobbies and Interests
A newfound love for a hobby can be invigorating and crucial to health. If your parent doesn't have a hobby, consider encouraging them to join any of the following:
Book club, Chess club, Art classes, Gym classes for elderly people
Support and advice groups, singing groups, art activities, quizzes, board games, and reading groups, are all available with the goal of keeping them mentally and physically active. Do some research to see what organizations in your area offer this.
Volunteering Opportunities
There are many organizations looking for volunteers, depending on how active your elderly parents are. They can volunteer in a local museum, art gallery, local hospital, animal shelter, or soup kitchen. Whatever they enjoy, volunteer work is a great way to keep them busy for an hour or two a day.
Find Something That Suits Your Parents
When you notice your elderly parent is starting to slow down, consider any of these six tips to keep them active. Whether it's playing community bingo, volunteering at a nearby soup kitchen, or finding a new hobby, you'll help them stay healthy doing something they enjoy.
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