When older adults retire, they have eight hours or more of extra free time on their hands every day. Unless seniors have plans in place to fill the days, they eventually become bored. Being chronically bored may lead to emotional and physical health issues and restlessness. Some seniors might begin to feel worthless.
British researchers studied 7,000 subjects over the course of 25 years. The team discovered the individuals who reported feeling chronically bored were more than twice as likely to develop fatal cardiovascular conditions. However, there are many ways family caregivers can help their senior loved ones boost health by preventing boredom.
1. Encourage Starting a Hobby
Doing some type of creative activity stimulates multiple regions in the brain, which protects seniors from developing cognitive impairment. After completing projects, older adults gain a sense of pride and accomplishment. Hobbies might include making items for family and friends.
Depending on your loved one’s interests, his or her skills might even provide a part-time income. Creative adults might venture into drawing, painting, sculpting, or needlework. Writing is another option, and some seniors might have a knack for woodworking.
2. Promote Socialization
Handwritten letters and notes are still an option for older adults to communicate with loved ones. However, with the many technological gadgets available, seniors have various means of staying in touch with friends and family members. Seniors might want to consider getting simple mobile phones, tablets, or laptops to enjoy conversations or text messages with others. Video chats and instant messaging are other options.
Computers and mobile devices also offer the chance to stay current on local and national events. Seniors who don’t have social networks are more likely to become lonely and depressed, which also leads to health issues.
Prolonged or frequent bouts of boredom can result in mental, emotional, and physical challenges for aging adults, but seniors don’t have to handle them alone. In-home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
3. Play Games Together
Games are another wonderful means of stimulating the brain. Seniors can invite friends or family members over to play board or card games. Many local senior centers often host game days or nights.
Older adults may also want to consider playing games online. Many online games have chat rooms where players visit with each other during play. This option might serve as a great way to make new friends.
4. Encourage Exercise
Many seniors can benefit from routine exercise programs. Combine aerobic exercise, strength training, and stretching exercises for a complete body workout. Exercise strengthens the cardiovascular system while increasing muscle mass, balance, and flexibility.
Older adults can start their regimens by going for 30-minute walks five days a week. Cycling is another recommended exercise. Swimming is ideal for seniors who need an activity that’s gentle on weight-bearing joints.
For seniors with mobility issues or other health conditions that make it challenging to exercise on their own, a professional caregiver can be a great asset. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care. Richmond Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
5. Suggest Volunteering
Regardless of the size of the community, there are bound to be opportunities for volunteering. Seniors who enjoy being around children might want to look into helping at daycare centers or preschools. Museums and zoos are other locations that often welcome older adults to serve as docents. Volunteering provides the chance for seniors to expand their social networks.
If your loved one usually relies on you to alleviate boredom but you need a break now and then, consider having a professional caregiver take over for you. Caring for a senior loved one can be rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming for family caregivers who have other responsibilities they need to focus on. For these families, the perfect solution is respite care. Richmond families rely on our caregivers whenever they need time to rest, work, run errands, and even go on vacation. If you need professional care for your loved one, Home Care Assistance is just a phone call away. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (804) 207-4746.