Winter Activities for Seniors

Brrr – it’s chilly outside! Short days and cold evenings lead many seniors to stay home which can cause inactivity, depression and boredom. Fight the gloomy winter blues with these fun activities:

• Join a book club. Ask your local library if they sponsor a book club or know where you can find one! Studies show that reading later in life leads to a lower rate of mental decline.
  
  
• Host a game night! Invite your friends over once a month for a game night. Ask everyone to bring a game and snack so that you don’t have to burden yourself with all of the hosting responsibilities.
  
  
• Try arts and crafts. If knitting or painting isn’t your cup of tea, try something as simple as coloring. The adult coloring trend has blown up and coloring books are now available at most department stores. Coloring has been shown to help with anxiety and stress.
  
  
• Hit up the gym. Walking on snowy and icy paths in the winter can lead to falls. Instead, find a local gym where you can walk on the treadmill to stay fit and healthy.
  
  
• Find a local attraction. Meet friends at a nearby art museum or for a game of bingo at the local city center.
  
  
• Experiment in the kitchen. Have you been thinking about trying a new recipe? Now that you’re stuck at home it’s the time to make a few mistakes until you get it just right! Ask your caregiver to help you with any tasks that you aren’t comfortable performing on your own.

How do you usually stay busy during the winter? Share your favorite activities and tips with us in the comments below!