There’s no doubt that the pandemic has changed all our lives in many ways, especially the lives of seniors. Our older family members are spending more and more time by themselves, with many cut off from friends and family – Particularly those who live on their own, outside of a seniors’ community.
Fortunately, there are still lots of fun and stimulating things that seniors can do to help them stay connected and improve their overall well-being!
In this article, we’re going to discuss ten creative ways you can stay active and entertained while practicing social distancing. Especially if you’re a senior who lives on your own.
1. Take a virtual tour.
While you might not be able to take a tour in person now, taking a virtual trip is a great way to safely explore the world in the comfort of your own home. Visit your favourite local places online or experience some of the most incredible museums, zoos, and theme parks around the globe.
2. Take a class
Have you ever wanted to learn how to play an instrument? Looking to pick up a new language? Want to sharpen your cooking skills? The internet is full of great online how-to’s and classes that can deliver a myriad of interesting learning opportunities.
3. Connect with family and friends online.
Thanks to today’s face-to-face technology, you don’t have to leave your home to spend time with loved ones. There are a host of social media websites and applications that offer quick and easy video chat options. Using Facebook, Instagram, or Zoom can help you stay connected.
4. Write a book.
Why just read a book when you can write one? Now is the perfect time to unleash your inner author and type that novel you have always wanted to write. Google is filled with sites and videos to help guide you through the book-writing process.
5. Practice yoga.
If you have never tried yoga, what are you waiting for? This popular mind body practice offers up a ton of physical and mental benefits, like boosting strength, balance, flexibility, and your mood. Yoga is also proven to reduce back pain, ease arthritis symptoms, and help you sleep better.
6. Create a Pinterest page.
Looking for a place to showcase your hobbies or interests? Creating a Pinterest page is a wonderful way for you to curate images and videos and share them with your friends and family. And the best part? It’s free!
7. Start an online book club.
Are you an avid reader? Then why not share your love of reading by starting your very own book club? You can wait until everyone is finished reading the novel before you begin your virtual meeting, or touch base with your group after every few chapters to share opinions on the latest page turner.
8. Shop online.
When it comes to social distancing, shopping in person can be difficult or next to impossible. The good news is that you don’t have to physically go to the mall to browse or shop. Today, most of your favourite stores offer online shopping options, with many of them providing free delivery.
9. Stream a concert.
For all those music lovers, there has never been an easier time to watch your favourite musician. You can stream a live concert or pick from the countless performances available on YouTube.
10. Enjoy arts and crafts.
Be it painting, scrapbooking, or crocheting, there is nothing like expressing your creative side to help beat boredom.
This list is a great place to start and hopefully sparks some ideas of your own. The key to staying mentally and physically fit during these times is getting creative with activity alternatives.
That said – If you find that these or similar activities still don’t keep away feelings of pandemic boredom, isolation, or unhappiness, we hope that you will consider making the move to a safe and lively seniors’ community like Carlton House.
If you do consider this option, be sure to look for a place that has the right balance of safety protocols, wellness support, and activity choices that will allow you to participate and socialize within a protected community bubble.
There are so many advantages to being in a great independent living seniors’ community, especially during a pandemic. If you’d like to learn more about these benefits, reach out to us today! (250-595-1914)
