Recreational Therapy Programs For Healthy Aging

When we think of healthy aging, our first thought may be related to medicine and doctor’s appointments. However, engaging in recreational activities that bring us joy, help us socialize and meet new friends, and stay physically and mentally active are just as important to your overall health as taking your daily medicine. Recreational therapy programs don’t have to be a physically intensive or difficult activity. It can be comprised of any activity or hobby that you enjoy, and helps build or maintain your cognitive or physical skills. Recreational therapy is ideal for people of all ages, although it’s especially helpful for seniors, people recovering from a stroke or other illnesses, and people with disabilities.

If you’re not sure if a recreational therapy program is right for you, consider the following examples of recreational activities and how they can help promote happier, healthier aging:

Board & Card Games
Games of any kind are an effective way to socialize with others and help increase or maintain cognitive function. You can play your favourite card games, such as bridge or Mahjong, or learn some fun new games and skills. Playing board games and card games will help you build skills that involve memory, concentration, strategy, and teamwork. Of course, games are also a wonderful way to meet people and enjoy time with friends or family, and promote a more positive, happier mindset.

Arts & Crafts
Crafting, drawing, and painting are a lot of fun and can serve as a creative and emotional outlet to relieve stress, depression, and anxiety. The necessity for precise movements, such as holding a paint brush or knitting needles, can also strengthen manual dexterity. There are arts and crafts options for every ability, and there’s no need to be hard on yourself to produce an amazing piece of artwork. The emphasis should always be on enjoying and expressing yourself, and learning new skills or picking up old hobbies. Joining groups, such as knitting circles or painting classes, is also a great way to socialize and meet new friends.

Walking Tours
Physical activity doesn’t have to be intensive to be effective. What’s important is going out and partaking in a form of exercise that you enjoy. Walking is many people’s favourite physical activity and it’s been shown to be a greatly beneficial form of exercise. It can be even more fun when done in group setting. You can join local groups that organize outings and walking tours, or form your own group with friends and neighbours. Whether it’s walking around a museum, art gallery, park, or walking around your neighbourhood, you’ll be able to get some fresh air, exercise, and catch up with friends.

Reading Aloud
Reading can become more difficult as we age, which can mean that we miss reading newspapers, journals, magazines, and books. While new technology allows people with limited eyesight to read more easily through magnification, high-contrast settings, and electronic voice reading, you can also make reading a group activity. A friend, relative, or at-home elderly companion can read newspapers or books out loud to you or group of friends, and you can discuss what you read together. It’s an effective way to stay up-to-date on current events while building thought processing skills, while sharing your opinions and learning new information.

Learn Technology
Technology has rapidly evolved over the past several decades, and some seniors may feel overwhelmed trying to keep up. Learning new skills, such as how to use and navigate the internet, use social media, and use a smart phone are excellent ways for seniors to boost cognitive function, memory, and increase communication with friends and family. A local group or at-home elderly companion can help you master the basics of new technology at a pace you’re comfortable with. Once you’re comfortable using the internet and social media, you can catch up with your grandchildren’s exciting accomplishments, look at and share photos of your loved ones, and enjoy video calls that allow you to easily connect with your family and friends. You can also explore the exciting world of online games that re-ignite your competitive spirit as you discover some new favourite games to play.

iCare Home Health: Professional Recreational Therapy Programs & Home Health Care Services

At iCare Home Health, we offer patients of all ages convenient, compassionate, and qualified home health care services to improve their health and wellbeing. Whether you need an at-home nurse, elderly companion, or want to enjoy a recreational therapy program that works for your lifestyle, our professional staff can help. Explore our comprehensive at-home services, and contact us today to arrange a consultation and learn more.