Keeping seniors active and engaged is important for their overall well-being. Studies show that when seniors stay socially active, it will help with age decline by keeping their brain active, and helping them to stay happy and away from feelings of loneliness. Blackfoot Assisted living facilities offer many opportunities for residents to socialize and participate in fun activities. If your elderly do not belong to an assisted living facility, here are ten great ideas to help get your seniors to stay socially active.
1) Bingo Night
A classic game that is always a hit with seniors. Encourage friendly competition and socializing over a few rounds of bingo. Make the prizes something that will be sure to get a laugh out of them. Something silly but also something desirable like some sort of fancy wine or a silly cowboy hat.
2) Movie Night
Set up a movie theater experience for seniors to enjoy a favorite film together. Popcorn and treats are a must! You can make it extra special by providing a time before the movie starts to encourage socialization by having them dress up their popcorn in fun ways with chocolate drizzle or other fun toppings.
3) Art Class
Whether it’s painting, drawing or sculpting, art can be a fun and therapeutic activity for seniors. Encourage residents to let their creativity flow and show off their work.
4) Exercise Classes
Keeping physically active is important for seniors, and group exercise classes can be a fun way to do it. Try yoga, dance, or even chair aerobics for a fun workout. If you have access, water aerobics class is a popular one with seniors because the water helps the body to be more buoyant which makes it easier on the joints. You do not need to be specially certified to lead such a class, just doing simple motions for them to follow will be plenty of exercise, and sure will be a hit.
5) Game Day
Organize a day filled with favorite board games and card games like chess, checkers, and bridge. Encourage residents to bring their own games to share. Play fun music and encourage seniors to rotate tables every certain amount of minutes.
6) Book Club
Start a book club where residents can come together to discuss their latest reads. Encourage residents to bring their favorite books to share with others. It is not necessary for them to share if they want, especially for those that haven’t been reading a book lately. Let them know it will be fun to have them just for company and to learn about more books!
7) Karaoke Night
Singing is a great way to boost your mood and have fun. Set up a karaoke machine and encourage residents to take the mic and show off their singing skills. For the shy seniors, let them know it is okay just to tag along for the show!
8) Garden Club
Gardening can be a therapeutic and enjoyable activity for seniors. Encourage residents to join a garden club and work together on indoor or outdoor gardening projects. Help them get started with a packet of seeds!
9) Cooking Club
Get residents together to cook and share favorite recipes. Encourage residents to bring ingredients and cook together, trying out new recipes and sharing stories.
10) Outdoor Excursions
Take residents on outdoor trips, such as visits to local parks, gardens, or museums. Encourage residents to enjoy the fresh air and scenery together.
By incorporating these activities, assisted living facilities can provide a fun, social and engaging environment for seniors. It’s important to keep seniors active and connected to their community, and these activities are a great way to do so.
