Regardless of what age, it’s extremely crucial for us to not lead a sedentary lifestyle as it can bring about many negative effects. However, as some activities require various levels of physical mobility, it can be challenging for older adults with limited mobility to be active. If these older adults are not given the resources and opportunities to lead an active lifestyle, they can fall victim to various health complications, such as poor mental health, low blood pressure, weakened immune system, and many more. If you have a hard time encouraging your loved ones to be active, no fret, as here are some recommended activities for older adults with limited mobility.
Arts and Crafts
For years, many medical professionals have recommended elderly folks to take part in arts and crafts activities. This is because arts and crafts have the capability to improve cognitive function, as it encourages the individual to think outside of the box and come up with unique ideas. All these actions stimulate the minds and enhance cognitive fitness over time. Considering that arts and crafts activities also do not require loved ones to move around as much, they are perfect for older adults with limited mobility. There’s a wide variety of arts and crafts activities available, such as pottery making, music classes, scrapbooking, painting, and knitting, to name a few.
Creative Writing and Journaling
Creative writing and journaling are other ways for older adults to stimulate their minds and keep their brains active. Research has shown that writing comes with many benefits, including preventing memory loss and slowing down the onset of illnesses like dementia. However, the best thing about writing is that it provides an opportunity for loved ones to express themselves freely in a safe and non-judgemental space. As they would write or journal in a private book, they can practice self-expression and freedom of speech without anyone judging them. As such, they are more motivated to write down their thoughts and feelings.
Touring Museums
Depending on the state your loved ones are in, many museums across the United States offer elderly-friendly tours during the weekdays. Most of the time, these tours are also priced more affordably as compared to the standard ones for adults and tourists. As such, it could be good for both you and your loved ones to make use of this opportunity to explore the various museums and cultural attractions during your free time. Touring museums not only allows older adults to get out of the house and interact with other people, but also exposes them to various topics like modern and classical art, space, and animals.
Arranging Flowers
Over the years, flower arrangement classes have risen in popularity not just in the United States, but around the world as well. This shouldn’t be too surprising since flowers and plants, in general, have been found to be hugely beneficial for our health. Aside from providing fresh air, flowers and plants can instantly lift our mood, and make us feel calm and relaxed. During a flower arrangement class, all your loved ones have to do is sit around a table and explore the various designs while arranging the flowers. It’s an activity that requires no physical activity and is suitable for everyone.