Activities for the Elderly
As we get older, it’s almost inevitable that we’ll experience some form of loss of mobility. This might come in the form of a minor injury from which we never fully recover; or it might be a steady decline that’s so gradual we don’t really notice it.
The good news is that a loss of mobility needn’t mean that you lose out on what’s enjoyable about life. And, fortunately, keeping mobile is a great way to stave off a permanent decline in your ability to get around. As the old adage goes, you need to use it or lose it.
Short Walks
Intense forms of exercise carry a risk of injury – particularly for older people. But the same can’t be said of walking. It’s low impact, which means the joints and muscles won’t have to absorb much in the way of shocks. Moreover, there’s very little chance that you’ll fall over and injure yourself.
For older people, shorter walks accumulated over an entire day make a great way to work exercise into a daily routine – whether it’s a trip to the local shop, or just a few round trips to the kitchen on tea runs.
Long Walks
Of course, many older people will still feel comfortable going on longer outdoor treks of miles. If you’re hiking outdoors, then a pair of walking poles makes a fantastic purchase. They’ll distribute the impact of every step over your shoulders and elbows, thereby reducing the strain on your knees and hips. Another essential investment comes in the form of a high-quality pair of walking shoes. Mobility Solutions provides a selection of suitable pairs.
Creative Pursuits
For those of us who’ve been dabbling in painting, writing and music over the years, retirement offers a great opportunity to pursue those activities. But even if you haven’t yet picked up a hobby of this sort, it’s never too late to start: creative pursuits have been linked with resilience to Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases, and a reduction in stress and anxiety. Whichever you choose, it’s likely to be incredibly therapeutic.
See a Show
While there’s a lot to be said for screen-based entertainment, there’s nothing that quite replicates the fun of a real stage production. Making time to go out and catch a performance can be an opportunity to vary your surroundings, so talk to a friend or relative about planning a trip to the theatre.