Keeping seniors psychologically active helps reduce the likelihood of many physical and mental issues. It strengthens cognitive skills that tend to decline with age, like perception, memory, and reasoning. It also improves overall health, keeping them from developing mental illnesses like anxiety and depression. Learn more about the five at-home activities to keep senior citizens mentally active.
Boardgames
Boardgames, like puzzles, are another great way to stimulate the mind. The social aspect keeps away feelings like loneliness, an epidemic among senior citizens. The classics are games like chess, bingo, and Scrabble. If you want to choose a new game, stick to simple and easy-to-understand instructions. With this, the sky is the limit as more and more board games are coming out every day.
Puzzles
Puzzles are among the best at-home activities to keep senior citizens mentally active. Even if they don’t seem interested, once they get started, they won't want to stop. The best part is they can work on it over a couple of days. The best games are puzzles ranging from 100-500 pieces. It is a challenge, but one they can take on. It helps exercise the more delicate muscles in their hands and arms that weaken with age.
Music
As older adults age, they tend to stop listening to their favorite music. But listening to your favorite music is therapeutic! Consider inviting over other seniors and hosting a dance party at home. This will increase overall well-being, foster socialization, and bring feelings of happiness and joy. Are you looking for senior citizen transportation services? Guardian In Home Health & Security is happy to ensure they arrive safe and secure to dance the afternoon away.
Crafts
Crafts are very popular for senior citizens. They are incredibly useful to them on all levels. They stimulate the right hemispheres of their brains. The right side of the brain oversees memory, problem-solving, discernment, and attention, so it is quite important to engage them in creative activities. The more crafts, the more the right side of the brain works, and the more it increases important skills. Consider engaging them in creative pursuits like scrapbooking, painting, or collage-making.
Media
TV shows, movies, and other forms of media are more of a passive activity. You might not want to include these activities. However, it is okay to have media in moderation, and you have the opportunity to make it engaging. For example, you can download fun games on a tablet for them to play, like "Candy Crush.” You may play one of their favorite movies or put on a fun show to keep them engaged and mentally active.