Senior Activity Ideas for Breaking Boredom
One day, Suellen realized it was time for a change around her house.
Her preschool children had memorized the entire script of John Wayne’s movie “Hondo,” all because Gramps watched it day after day, every day.
Not only did the film have to change, No, she decided that Gramps needed to do something different, not just the same old routine every day.
Days of caregiving at home can become the same old thing, over and over. It can get boring, just like watching the same movie over and over.
When this happens, caregivers need to do something different and meaningful daily with the loved one they’re caring for. You need some senior activity ideas.
As a caregiver, you may consider the person’s limitations. Remember the pastimes, hobbies, and interests your loved one used to have? Their short endurance level or attention span presents obstacles that mean those days are over for your loved one.
You can find another way to help your loved one enjoy that pastime once again. But are you sure? Let’s suggest some senior activity ideas.
Cooking
Did your loved one once enjoy cooking but has since stopped? Preparing Thanksgiving dinner for ten may be far too ambitious. How about helping her with simple foods such as cornbread or pudding mix?
Suppose your mom has always liked new kitchen gadgets. Helping her use a blender, a juicer, a slow cooker, or a bread maker might make for an enjoyable learning experience.
Opening a package of refrigerated cookie dough, cutting the cookies, and baking them can improve a dull day. Not only could you enjoy eating them, but you could also spread the pleasure by sharing them.
A lady in our area bakes cookies weekly and mails them to overseas military members. There’s probably someone who would enjoy the cookies you and your loved one could bake: a neighbor, a Sunday School class, the staff at your doctor’s office, and of course, the grandkids.
Gardening
Many seniors were once gardeners who took pride in their lawns and gardens. While they may not be able to mow the lawn or prune the hedges anymore, they can continue to garden on a smaller scale.
What about getting some seeds that you can both start indoors in a pot, then tend in pots or window boxes as the plants grow? Planting flowers and vegetables in a raised box can assist a gardener who can’t bend over or needs to sit while working.
Bird Watching
Bird-watching can be fun and interesting. You may even be able to involve kids or other family members. You can prepare a “nest” for your loved one in front of a large window with a comfortable chair, an end table, or a footrest. Outside, set up a bird feeder and a bird bath close by. Think secluded and comfortable.
Being Helpful
Your elderly parent once cared for household chores independently and could still do routine things like folding towels or clothing. They may enjoy sorting through the photos, organizing the albums, or dusting and reshelving books in the bookcase.
An occupational therapist might have some ideas for senior activities, such as how to make it possible for your loved one to pursue their hobby or get help with an activity.
Keeping active is good for the mind and body. People need to feel useful.
I like John Wayne as much as the next person,… but the same movie every day? Then, you know, it’s time for something to change.
