As we age, staying active becomes increasingly important for maintaining health and vitality. Many sources emphasize that regular physical activity can prevent chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance the quality of life in our later years.
But when we think of retirement activities, it’s easy to default to the usual suspects—like bingo. That’s not to say that a round of bingo isn’t a whole lot of fun, but there are so many more options available.
At Levante Living, we believe that an enriching retirement should weave in a variety of engaging and stimulating activities. Here’s how you can break the mold and introduce innovative activities into the daily lives of seniors.
1. Embracing Technology
With the digital age in full swing, seniors have more opportunities than ever to engage with cutting-edge technology that entertains, educates, and connects.
Engaging computer programs that are tailored to cognitive fitness and integrate problem-solving and memory exercises are beneficial and enjoyable for seniors.
Many computer games are designed to be both challenging and entertaining, aiming to improve memory, attention, problem-solving skills, and overall cognitive function.
Or try something new like a virtual reality headset! Virtual reality (VR) experiences can transport people with limited mobility to foreign lands, historical events, or even back to their childhood neighborhoods, all from the safety of their living rooms.
Tip: A VR headset makes for a fantastic gift for your senior parent!
2. Artistic Expression in Active Retirement Communities
Artistic expression at senior living residences doesn’t have to be limited to just painting and drawing. Many active retirement communities now offer workshops in crafts, pottery, sculpture, ad digital arts allowing seniors to explore new creative outlets.
These activities provide a sense of achievement and personal expression and improve fine motor skills and cognitive function through color theory and spatial awareness.
3. Culinary Adventures
At Levante Living, we take food seriously by focusing on both the body and the mind in our Levante Nourish Program. We carefully source the best ingredients to serve the most delicious and nutrient rich meals.
Culinary classes are another delicious addition to any active retirement living plan. Seniors can learn to prepare nutritious gourmet meals or dishes from various cultures and the ability to prepare one’s own meals promotes independence and well-being.
These classes are not just about food preparation; they also offer lessons in nutrition, ingredient sourcing, and are a great social activity that ends with a tasty reward.
4. Get Moving with Innovative Physical Activities
While traditional physical activities like walking and swimming are fantastic, there are other less conventional options that have begun to gain popularity in active retirement.
Tai Chi, yoga, ping pong, chair aerobics, stretching, and dance classes like salsa or ballroom dancing provide low-impact, high-reward opportunities for keeping the body and mind in excellent condition.
These classes offer social interaction, which is vital for emotional health, as well as increased brain functioning.
5. Educational Opportunities
At Levante Living, we never stop learning. Learning doesn’t have to end with formal education. Many active retirement communities offer lectures and courses on a variety of subjects, such as history, technology, and the arts.
New discoveries in Neuroscience have debunked the myth that we can’t learn new things as we age into our later years. Instead, Neuroplasticity proves that we can learn new things at any age!
Book clubs, language classes, guest speakers, and even arts and crafts can provide intellectual stimulation and help maintain cognitive function, making them perfect retirement activities.
6. Gardening: The Gentle Touch of Nature
Gardening is a soothing activity and enhances our physical, mental, and emotional well-being, regardless of our age.
It offers light exercise that improves cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, and strengthens bones, reducing osteoporosis risks.
Mentally, it helps lower stress, enhances mood, and boosts cognitive function, with studies showing dementia patients benefiting from indoor gardening.
Socially, gardening connects seniors with their community and nature, improving mental health and promoting physical activity. It also increases exposure to sunlight, crucial for vitamin D production and immune health, and encourages dietary variety, reducing nutritional deficiencies.
Gardening can be customized to individual fitness levels and can yield significant health benefits, making it a valuable part of active retirement living.
7. Crafting a Fulfilling Retirement
At Levante Living, we understand that an active retirement means more than just staying physically active—it’s about engaging in a variety of enriching activities that stimulate the mind, body, and soul.
From technological adventures and artistic pursuits to culinary excursions and beyond, we offer a wide array of options to ensure that life after retirement remains vibrant and fulfilling.
To discover more about our innovative offerings and to discuss how we can tailor our activities to suit your needs or those of a loved one, schedule a call with one of our advisors.
Let us know the most convenient time for you to meet. We are available in the evenings and during weekends and holidays to answer any questions you have about senior living.
We enjoy thoughtful conversations about how we can best assist you, and it is our pleasure to be of service, no matter where your journey leads you.
