We all know how important it is to keep our minds and bodies active, particularly as we grow older and when we retire. Keeping the mind stimulated is the best way to "stay young" according to studies. One way to keep your brain stimulated is keep it working by taking up a hobby. Hobbies can not only be fun, but can refresh the mind and body.
The benefits of having a hobby can include reducing stress, improving memory, improving physical fitness, and enabling better sleep. Of course some of these depend on the type of hobby, but generally speaking any hobby that keeps the mind focused is doing good.
Sociable activities such as book clubs or walking groups are great for combating loneliness whilst jigsaw puzzles and Sudoku can be brilliant for keeping a sharp mind.
Elderly hobbies can also be a great bonding tool between family members. Have you considered teaching your granddaughter to knit? Or how about playing a game of walking football with your relatives? These types of activities can be a great way of building relationships.
Pick up those pencils!
Colouring is no longer just for children! The demand for adult colouring books has boomed in the last few months and is the perfect elderly hobby. It provides a relaxing break from the stresses of everyday life as well as a nostalgic return to childhood.
Colouring provides a cost-friendly creative outlet that you can enjoy from the comfort of your sofa. Due to their rising popularity, adult colouring books are widely available in bookshops and supermarkets. Or why not try downloading and printing these free colouring pages.
Get Moving
Yoga has been shown to improve mobility and balance in people over the age of 60. Alongside the obvious physical benefits to the practice, yoga encourages relaxation techniques as well as helping with anxiety and depression.
You can find yoga groups in your local area (there are many groups specifically for over-50s) and you can even practice some yoga techniques in your own home. The great thing about yoga as an elderly hobby is that it can be altered to the needs of the individual – you can use pillows, straps and chairs to help you. There are also a great many video guides and tutorials online.
Only do what you can and remember to always consult your doctor before trying a new activity!
Learn Something New
In additon to all the above, there's also learning a new instrument, which can be a very rewarding experience. Perhaps one of your family could teach you to play a few tunes on the keyboard or you could learn guitar alongside a friend. Maybe even take up lessons running locally.
The ukulele has become popular in recent times and you can pick one up for as little as £20. You can even learn Ukulele from the comfort of your own home as there are thousands of simple YouTube tutorials online.
If you’re not very tech savvy, there are also plenty of books and CDs that allow you to teach yourself.
Keep safe whilst trying something new
In order to keep yourself safe whilst trying out your new hobbies, consider using a Careline365 personal alarm. For more information about out life-saving alarms please visit the Careline365 website. You can also call one of our friendly advisers on 0800 101 3333.
A personal alarm ensures that you remain independent and secure in your own home.
