As we age, it is normal for us to feel more tired and have a hard time maintaining daily activity. But that does not mean we should allow age to define our limits, but rather we should try to adapt to activities for older people that promote our physical, mental and emotional well-being.
In this NAMI article we want to provide you with several examples of activities for older people that we can do at home or in other environments, as well as those with reduced mobility.
Why is it important to maintain activity in older people?
The importance of physical and mental activity throughout the years is undeniable. In recent decades, the World Health Organization (WHO) has been promoting the so-called active aging which tries to turn aging into a very positive stage, with new opportunities and experiences based on various activities for older people that promote health and encourage participation in various social spheres.
The purpose of practicing activities for older people is not only to be able to live longer, but to live them better, with more autonomy, with more health and with more vitality. Here are some reasons why you shouldn’t let the passage of time become your excuse for staying still:
Improve your physical health
Your bones, muscles and joints need to be exercised regularly, as this will improve mobility, increase resistance and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. On the other hand, a sedentary lifestyle and inactivity cause a deconditioning of our entire body: we lose muscle and our heart and lungs also lose capacity, which makes us feel tired and weak.
Take care of your mental health
Mental activity, such as solving crossword puzzles, reading, or learning new skills, stimulates your brain, reduces the risk of dementia, and keeps you alert and energetic. Physical activity also stimulates the release of endorphins, which improves mood and reduces the risk of depression.
Life is full of shared moments. Participating in physical or cognitive activities offers you the opportunity to interact with colleagues, friends and family, strengthening those special bonds and allowing for joyful and endearing moments that are essential for emotional well-being.
Allows you to be more autonomous and independent
The ability to take care of yourself is something we all desire. If you stay active, you can continue doing the things you love so much while maintaining your independence.
Examples of activities for older people
There are many activities for older people that promote physical, mental, social and emotional health. The important thing is that, depending on our interests, tastes and desires, we can incorporate them into our daily lives.
Cognitive activities for older people
Keeping an active mind is as important as taking care of our body. That is why we show you a series of cognitive activities for older people that you can practice at home or in other places and environments:
- Board games: Games such as chess, checkers, dominoes or cards require strategy and concentration, which stimulates the mind.
- Reading: Reading books, magazines or newspapers keeps the mind active and is an excellent source of entertainment.
- Learn something new: learning a language or an artistic skill, as well as taking excursions and trips can be very fun and stimulating activities that provide a high degree of satisfaction and personal well-being.
- Hobbies: Gardening, painting, sewing, or any hobby that sparks interest can provide a sense of accomplishment.
- Mental exercises: Puzzles, sudokus and crossword puzzles are very effective mental exercises to keep your mind agile.
Physical activities for older people
- Walking: A daily walk is a great way to stay active. You can do it alone, with friends or in organized groups. Make sure you wear comfortable and appropriate footwear.
- Swimming: Swimming is a low-impact activity that exercises the entire body. Plus, it’s gentle on the joints, making it ideal for seniors.
- Yoga: Yoga improves flexibility, balance and strength. Yoga classes specifically designed for seniors are a great option.
- Tai Chi: Tai chi is a form of gentle exercise that involves slow, fluid movements that improve flexibility, balance and concentration.
- Resistance exercises: Using elastic bands, light weights, or resistance machines can help strengthen muscles, which is essential for maintaining strength and mobility.
- Dancing: It is a fun activity that improves mood and coordination. You can try ballroom dancing, sevillanas, flamenco, Latin dances or even online dance classes.
- Balance exercises: Performing specific exercises to improve balance, such as standing on one foot, is essential to prevent falls.
- Fitness classes for seniors: Many gyms and senior centers offer fitness classes tailored to the needs of seniors. These classes usually include low-impact exercises and safe movements.
Activities for older people with reduced mobility
In addition to cognitive activities, older people with reduced mobility can also enjoy activities that promote their well-being:
- Chair exercises: Resistance exercises can be performed with elastic bands or light weights while sitting.
- Occupational therapy: An occupational therapist can provide activities tailored to the individual needs of the person with reduced mobility.
- Music and relaxation: Listening to relaxing music or practicing deep breathing techniques can help reduce anxiety and stress.
- Art therapy: Painting, drawing or sculpture can be creative activities that adapt to the abilities of each person.
- Adapted board games: Most board games can be enjoyed sitting down, but they can also be adapted to the special needs of each person.
In short, staying active is essential for our physical, mental and emotional well-being. There are many activities for older people, whether cognitive, physical, or activities adapted to people with reduced mobility, which allow us to maintain a healthy and happy life.
We offer our seniors different activity programs in our Day Centers and Residences, in order to provide active aging and maintain their autonomy, entertainment, learning and socialization as much as possible.
