Moving a loved one into an assisted living facility can be hard, for both parties. Some people might feel like they are abandoning their loved one by moving them into a senior living community. As a caretaker, In order to feel a little better about leaving a family member in someone else’s care, one of the best things you can do is simply spend time with them. Ensuring that you are still making time for them, even if it’s a couple hours a week, lets them know you are still there despite needing a little more help to take care of them. Our residents get so happy when someone pops in to visit with them, especially if you were to pop in with something to do. Below are some great hobbies to take up with your loved one, quality time is a good time!
- Gardening: Cultivating a garden can be immensely rewarding. Whether you have a spacious backyard or just a few pots on a balcony, growing flowers, herbs, or vegetables allows you to connect with nature and enjoy the satisfaction of watching something grow. Here at Bel Aire we provide planters, perfect for seated gardening! Convenient and useful!
- Art and Crafts: From painting to knitting to pottery, engaging in artistic pursuits can be both relaxing and stimulating. Many communities offer classes tailored to seniors, providing not only instruction but also a chance to socialize with others who share your interests. Here at Bel Aire, weekly we encourage our residents to make something cute for someone they love. It keeps our residents’ hands moving, and their brains working.
- Cooking and Baking: Trying out new recipes or perfecting old favorites can be a delightful way to spend an afternoon. In my opinion, one of the funnest activities we host is cookie decorating! It’s something fun to do, and our residents get to know our Kitchen Director a little better, also who wouldn’t want a cookie?
- Reading and Writing: Whether you enjoy getting lost in a good book or have always wanted to write your memoirs, literature offers endless possibilities for exploration and self-expression. Joining a book club or writing group can add a social dimension to these activities. At Bel Aire Senior Living, we have a resident directed family history group. They can socially bond over something they are all interested in!
- Fitness and Exercise: Staying active is crucial for both physical and mental well-being. Activities like yoga, sit n’ dances, swimming, or even regular walks in the park can help maintain mobility and improve overall health. Bel Aire Activities hosts a sit n’ dance, or something similar a few times a month!
- Music: Learning to play a musical instrument or joining a choir can be a wonderful way to express yourself creatively and connect with others who share your passion for music. We love to have live performances here at Bel Aire, that way our residents can enjoy music in the comfort of their own home!
- Volunteering: Giving back to the community can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Whether you volunteer at a local school, hospital, or animal shelter, contributing your time and skills can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
- Technology and Gaming: Embracing technology can open up new hobbies, such as digital photography, online gaming, or connecting with loved ones through social media and video calls. Bel Aire is lucky enough to have access to the Dakim Brain Fitness program. It has some complex puzzle like games to keep the brain working and strong!
Conclusion
The key to finding the right hobby as a senior is to explore activities that bring you joy, stimulate your mind, and possibly connect you with others. Whether you’re rediscovering an old passion or trying something entirely new, hobbies offer a way to enrich your life and maintain a sense of purpose during retirement, and a quick excuse to spend time with the people you love. So, don’t hesitate to try out different activities and see what sparks your interest—you might just discover a new passion that brings fulfillment and happiness for years to come.
If you have any questions about our facility please reach out at 801-763-0622.