7 Assisted Living Boredom Busters for Seniors
Assisted living housing often provides more than nursing care and housekeeping. If you or your loved one resides at an assisted living facility, there may be ample opportunity for social interaction and fun activities. Becoming involved in daily activities is a good way to combat feelings of loneliness and boredom that some experience as they enter their senior years. Begin by asking a coordinator at the assisted living facility about interactive daily activities.
The following is a sample of boredom-busting activities that are often available for assisted living residents:
1. Pet Therapy
Pet therapy has become a growing trend among many seniors residing at an assisted living home. If you have been searching for an assisted living community for yourself or a loved one, you might want to look into this further. Inquire about facilities that actually house on-site pets for residents to interact with.
Ask about their pet policies as well. Interaction with pets is known to have health benefits and lower stress levels. It may also fight boredom and feelings of loneliness. In addition, if the assisted living community allows residents to walk their dogs, this can be a good form of cardiovascular exercise.
2. Exercise Classes
Many assisted living communities offer organized fitness classes for their senior residents. Participation is a good way to meet others in the community and prevent boredom for those who are living alone. Some of the various exercise classes that may be offered include water aerobics, dancing and yoga. Fitness and exercise classes will typically be taught by trained instructors.
Before participating in an exercise class at the assisted living facility, it's important to get the approval from one's physician. Those who have not exercised previously or have been living a sedentary lifestyle should take it slow at first. Inquire about a beginner's class. Moving up to an intermediate or advanced class should happen after one improves.
3. Interactive Computer Games
The thought of seniors playing video games may seem strange, but it may have certain benefits. If the assisted living community offers an entertainment game room or club house, it may include the addition of a video game console. Keep in mind, video games best geared for seniors should be those that are interactive and designed to improve memory and cognitive skills. Playing these games are not only a boredom buster, it can be a good form of social interaction, especially when participating in games that require two or more players.
4. Computer Courses
Here is another great boredom buster. Additionally, it's a good way to improve one's cognitive ability. For seniors who have not quite grasped the fundamentals of computer use, a computer course can be ideal. Many assisted living communities offer computer rooms with instruction for those who need some guidance. Computer course may include training on a traditional desktop computer, a laptop or even a tablet.
5. Language Courses
Learning a second language can be very fulfilling by offering seniors a sense of accomplishment. Inquire about assisted living programs that include teaching foreign languages such as Spanish, French and Italian. Learning a new language can help beat boredom and enhance cognitive ability for seniors.
6. Arts and Crafts
Many seniors feel bored when they are not given the opportunity to nurture their creativity. Assisted living communities are often organizing classes and workshops for those who enjoy knitting, sewing, pottery making, painting, drawing and other crafty projects. Many of the communities will post schedules for such events and classes, so it's a good idea to check back often.
7. Social Outings
Getting out of the home environment while interacting with others is a great way to beat boredom. Many assisted living communities offer the occasional group outing for their residents. This may include a trip by bus or van to a museum, a play, a musical or a sporting event.
