If you think that senior living consists of just sitting around playing Bingo or watching game shows on TV, think again. (Not that there is anything wrong with bingo or TV game shows!) Today’s senior living communities offer activities and outings that speak to an array of hobbies and interests. Since you no longer need to deal with the daily hassles of home ownership, you can now spend your time doing what you enjoy. In addition, engaging in activities that please you keeps your mind sharp, helps your body become stronger and more flexible, and alleviates any feelings of boredom and isolation.
Here are some activities and hobbies that senior living residents can enjoy:
Physical Fitness
Most senior communities have fitness centers and organized activities to keep you moving. If you’re into walking or pumping iron, go for it! You can also indulge in yoga, dance, or tai chi classes. If you have physical or mobility challenges, many senior communities teach seated exercise classes. Or, if you prefer outdoor activities, consider hiking, birdwatching, cycling, gardening, or pickleball. If you live near water, spend a day at the beach or go paddle boating or fishing at a local lake.
Artistic and Creative Pursuits
There is always knitting and crocheting. How about watercolor, painting, coloring, or scrapbooking? Try photography or woodworking. Participate in a journaling or creative writing group. Go on an outing to a local art museum or community theatre production. If you have a special artistic skill, volunteer to teach a class. You are only limited by your creativity and imagination.
Intellectual Activities
Get together with your neighbors and spend a rainy afternoon playing board games or cards. See who can solve a Sudoku or crossword puzzle first. Learn a new language with a group so you can practice conversing. Join or start a book club. Invite a local poet, writer, or expert for a talk and discussion.
Volunteer Your Time
If you like to knit, crochet, or sew, form a group to craft items for hospitals or support groups that benefit babies, children, cancer patients, or animals. Hold a fundraising drive to benefit a local school or charity. During the holidays, bake treats for local first responders. Volunteer to staff a voting precinct for an election. Offer to mentor a young person who is considering going into your previous profession or become an adult literacy coach. There are endless opportunities for giving back, which will benefit you as much, or even more, than the recipients.
Explore Life at a Kingsbury Community
There are many hobbies and activities you can participate in at a senior living community. If you don’t find something you like, create your own group. At Kingsbury, we encourage residents to pursue their interests and live their best lives. Kingsbury was built by Ohioans for Ohioans, and our mission is to treat every resident like royalty! To learn more about independent/assisted living, villas, or memory care, schedule a tour.