It is important to keep seniors active and engaged in their retirement years. With age, they tend to become inactive which can have an adverse effect on their physical and mental health. To prevent the deterioration of their well-being, you should try to make sure they stay busy. Apart from daily tasks like bathing, grooming, eating and dressing, seniors have plenty of time left over for leisure that should be used wisely to keep them active. Think fun activities that will stimulate their brain and keep them sharp despite their age. Read on to find out more.

What Activities Will Engage Seniors?

Here are some interesting activities to keep seniors engaged.

1. Video games

You can’t expect seniors to play basketball, soccer or other high-intensity games. That’s where video games come in. There are obviously many different types available, including virtual reality ones where they can move their bodies instead of just pressing buttons on a remote. From bowling and tennis to golf and basketball, they can play any of these while relaxing at home.

2. Group Exercises

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Having a social life is important for everyone, including older adults. But keeping one after retirement is difficult unless they live in a retirement home. As they are home much of the time, it’s crucial that they step out for activities with other people. Yoga, tai chi, aerobics and even laughter yoga are some ideal options. By enrolling in at least one of these, they will not only interact with others but improve their self-confidence and prevent monotony.

3. Gardening

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Now that they have time, why not garden? This is one of the most effective ways to keep seniors preoccupied, with productive work that includes digging, weeding and watering plants and trees. This is a great way to connect with nature and make one happy and relaxed.

4. Painting

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It’s never too late to be creative, and this is especially applicable to seniors who led a hectic work life. Painting is a great activity for seniors as it diverts their mind sand allows them to express their emotions and thoughts. It also helps their eye-hand coordination which boosts their confidence. Suggest different types of painting, such as water colours, acrylics and oils.

5. Pottery

Pottery is another creative activity that can be engaging if seniors are instructed well. Working with wet clay requires patience and creativity to give shape to their imagination. This can be somewhat tasking but forces them to think beyond the ordinary.

6. Chess

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Chess is a wonderful game that improves cognitive skills and compels players to think hard in order to do well. But make sure they have a suitable partner. If they develop a passion for the game, you should encourage them to participate in organized senior chess championships. In this way, they can develop a wider social circle and a more content life.

7. Jigsaw puzzles

Jigsaw puzzles help keep the minds of seniors sharp and increase their alertness. They can play them alone or with family or new friends they may not have made otherwise.

8. Scrabble

Scrabble is one of the best games that can be played with two or four players. It is a strategic board game that compels players to think hard and improve their vocabulary.

These are some of the most interesting activities that seniors can indulge in their leisure time. They not only prevent boredom but also stimulate their brains to stay alert irrespective of age. Just make sure they like what they do or it will result in frustration. Be patient, figure out what they enjoy and encourage them to participate in that activity in their free time to lead a more content life.