The elderly today are living much longer, healthier lives. Moving to an assisted living facility is reassuring as their memory and health start to decline but most seniors can get in years of active living before needing constant care.
Studies show that elders who are not engaged on every level may become depressed and even agitated. They are more likely to lose motor skills and feel disconnected from the world. Conversely, the elderly who are provided with stimulating activities retain a sense of independence, take pride in their accomplishments, and enjoy self-expression. The latter are likely to retain their health well into old age and have a prolonged life.
Here are some activities that can be enjoyed by seniors who want the most out of life.
Spa Day
The elderly enjoy pampering every bit as much as the rest of us. Treat your mother to a day at a relaxing spa with a salon and other grooming services. She can get her hair cut and colored, have a manicure and pedicure, eat healthy food, and have a full-body massage to iron out all the tension that accumulates in any person over time. Make this a regular activity, at least every other month.
Assisted Living Activities
Many assisted living facilities offer some activities for residents. However, the really good ones go beyond watching television, playing bingo, and a weekly chair exercise class. Before settling on a facility, check their list of planned activities. The Brandycare Livingston NJ assisted living facility encourages residents to enjoy life and has designed many creative activities to keep them actively engaged and socializing.
Music And Dance
Look for quality ballets, operas, live comedy shows, and other activities that allow your aging parent to get out for the afternoon or evening. He/she will gain double enjoyment from this because of sharing the time and event with you. Aim for an outing regularly to give your parent something to look forward to.
Music and dance enhance brain function and mobility, so they are great activities for parents with Alzheimer’s Disease or dementia too. Find a ballroom dancing class for seniors and take your parent.
Continuing Studies
Nothing stops a senior from undertaking a new study course. Online lectures are available on virtually any subject that interests your parent. These can be done in the lounge area of his/her private suite at the assisted living facility. Give your parent the chance to achieve new success.
Arts And Crafts
A senior who has diminished mobility can still engage in arts and crafts. This could be painting, drawing, pottery, or even wood carving. Most of these activities are done seated.
Caring for an elderly parent should not come down to one adult child. You can help your parents live life to its fullest by sharing the tasks of taking them to stimulating venues and ensuring that the assisted living facility you place them in has a full schedule of enjoyable activities available.
