Everyday Adventures for Seniors

with healthy seniors and families in mind, this article is sponsored by Parkview Nursing & Rehabilitation

When winter arrives, it is not as easy to get out and engage in many activities, especially for seniors. Sometimes mental health takes a negative turn. Seniors can face isolation and loneliness from lack of interaction and activity during the winter months. COVID-19 has also prevented many seniors from living an active and social life. However, with a little planning and creativity, you can brighten up your loved one’s day with fun adventures.

Find Flavor

For many of us, food is a love language. Whether it’s a favorite recipe or a dish from a new restaurant, taking time to research and try new tastes can put a smile on your loved one’s face. Try resurrecting a recipe from grandma’s old cookbook, ordering takeout from a restaurant you haven’t tried before, or simply having a picnic in the backyard. Making memories from everyday meals can be inexpensive and bring connection, joy, and inspiration.

Keep it Local

Extravagant vacations are not always realistic for seniors. But you don't have to break the bank or cross time zones for an adventure. Are there historical landmarks or markets in your town to explore? A simple Internet search can help you learn about places of interest in your loved one’s community. Perhaps a unique museum or antique shop is in the neighborhood. A day trip to a park, senior center, animal shelter, or cinema can be just the pick-me-up to brighten their week. Even a drive through the countryside or a scenic boulevard can be a memorable adventure.

Memories Matter

When was the last time you asked your senior loved one about their childhood or adult life? What keepsakes and mementos do they have tucked away that are asking to be dusted off and explored? Ask your loved one for a tour down memory lane and learn their story. Photos, hobbies, music, collectibles, and even clothing can hold immense meaning for them. Even taking the time to restore or digitize their memories could become a priceless gift.

Get Hands-On

Many seniors have hobbies that can be enjoyed in their own living space. Ask your loved one what they like to do for fun or if there is something new they would like to learn. Maybe they’ve always wanted to try needlepoint, crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, quilting, gardening, or wildlife watching. Woodworking and collecting are other practical activities to consider. Scrapbooking, reading, playing music and watching classic movies offer fun for the whole family. Finding and investing in hobbies can greatly enrich your loved one's quality of life and connect them with others who also enjoy the same activities.

The winter months during a global pandemic have changed our lifestyles significantly, but they have also provided more opportunities to prioritize the quality of life and connection with those we love. Everyday adventures can be found just around the corner, and seniors deserve the highest quality of life possible. 