With age come issues—be it age-related health or due to other reasons—that can make it difficult to stay engaged and active.

Having a hobby can help you to stay mentally and physically active, as well as provide a sense of purpose. Hobbies can be anything. It could be gardening, joining a book club, or even playing video games. Engaging in leisure activities can help promote a healthy lifestyle and alleviate boredom. 

Unfortunately, Americans between the ages 65 and 74 spend only about 1.7 hours more per day on leisure activities than the population as a whole, according to the most recent American Time Use Survey. That number should definitely be much higher, given the myriad benefits of having hobbies. Let’s discuss a few below.

6 Reasons Why It’s Good For Seniors to Have a Hobby

1. Promotes Mental Alertness: Participating in a hobby can help to keep the mind active and increase alertness. Engaging in puzzles or activities that require problem-solving is beneficial to seniors, as they help keep their brains engaged and working
2. Improves Cognitive Function: According to the CDC, “one in eight adults over the age of 60 reported some form of memory loss or confusion”. Studies have shown that engaging in hobbies and leisure activities can help improve a senior’s cognitive function, in areas such as decision-making, memory, visual perception and more. This is especially important for seniors who have Alzheimer's disease, as it may help slow down the progression of the condition.
3. Increases Physical Strength: Participating in a hobby that requires physical activity can help seniors to maintain their physical strength and endurance. Activities such as gardening, golf, walking and swimming will help get the heart rate up and also help with strengthening muscles.
4. Improves Mood: Having a hobby can help to improve the overall mood. It can provide an opportunity for them to feel a sense of accomplishment and pride when they are able to complete a task or learn something new. It can also help relieve stress, anxiety and depression.
5. Increases Social Connections: Participating in a hobby can also help to reduce loneliness and increase social connections. Engaging in group activities, such as joining a book club, can help provide social interaction, as well as an opportunity to make new pals.
6. Promotes Independence: Hobbies can also help seniors maintain their independence by giving them something to do and look forward to. This can help to reduce feelings of dependence on others and give them a sense of purpose.

Top 4 Hobbies for Seniors

Writing

Writing can be a great hobby for seniors! It offers a creative outlet for one’s imagination. It acts as a way to express yourself that you may not have the time or energy to do other activities. It also offers a great way to keep your mind active and engaged.

Writing can be done in any kind of format, ranging from poetry and short stories to memoirs and letters. You can even try your hand at journaling or blogging to share your stories with the world. Reflecting on your life experiences can be equally beneficial for you as the writer and your readers. 

Gardening

Looking to get that extra dose of vitamin D or just feeling the need to get your hands dirty? Gardening is an enjoyable and potentially therapeutic hobby that can help seniors stay active and engaged. It can provide physical exercise, mental stimulation, and an opportunity to foster a sense of community and connection to the outdoors. Gardening can also provide an opportunity to pass down knowledge, memories and traditions to younger generations.

Most importantly, gardening can provide easily-accessible health benefits. The physical activity that comes with gardening can help seniors to stay agile, increase strength and bone density, and help improve balance and coordination. 

Travelling

Scratch your itch to travel by turning it into a hobby. Visit and explore new places near and far, indulge your curiosity and soak up new cultures, experiences, and history. With so many online resources available, there's no limit to the adventures you can have.

Take advantage of senior discounts wherever you go and find ways to get the best deals. Get creative with planning your trips and stretch your budget as much as possible. Whether it's a weekend trip or a longer stay, travelling can be a fantastic hobby for seniors.

Reading

Reading—even a few pages a day—can be a great way to keep your mind sharp and engaged. It offers a chance to explore different worlds and ideas, while also providing a way to pass the time. Whether it's novels, magazines, biographies, or memoirs; you can find something to suit your interests and tastes. Reading is also an activity you can do in the comfort of your own home, which makes it ideal for seniors who may have mobility issues. 

Hobbies, undoubtedly, improve the overall well-being of seniors. It can provide them with a sense of purpose, promote physical and mental alertness, as well as increase social connections. With so many potential activities to explore, there's something for everyone. So why not find a hobby that you're passionate about, and get creative with it? At Brookfield Assisted Living in Arkansas, we strive to promote an active and fulfilling lifestyle for seniors and encourage the exploration and engagement of hobbies. Interested in learning more? Contact us or call us at (479) 855-5600.