Winter in Arizona is one of the primary reasons people move to the state. Our temperatures average out at about a high of 60 and a low of about 40. While this is far more temperate than most of the United States, rain and wind can make our weather a bit frigid for seniors.
If you’re looking for activities to enjoy on those dreary days, try these hobbies for seniors this winter. While they are great for keeping you occupied in less-than-desirable weather, it could continue to be something you enjoy in the peak summer heat too!
Explore cooking or baking
Whether you are a seasoned cook or someone who never quite found the time to hone that ability, cooking and baking is a great hobby. It encourages you to constantly develop new skills as you try new recipes, which is great for your overall cognitive function.
If you’re uncertain where to start, try some healthy recipes. That way you’re practicing your skills while eating nutritious meals.
Uncover your family tree
Many older adults are proud of their lineage. They love to share stories of times gone by with their children and grandchildren not only as a sort of time capsule, but so they can share the stories of future generations.
If family history is something of interest to you, why not enrich your knowledge? These days, genealogy is easily explored through DNA tests. The test is easy to complete, and after a few weeks, you’ll receive access to an abundance of information about where your family came from, distant relatives, and even genetic predispositions.
Try yoga
Yoga is fantastic physical activity for seniors. Classes vary from being more about stretching one’s limbs to genuinely working up a sweat. Regardless of which you join, it is a low-impact activity that will build your strength, flexibility, and balance.
Regular yoga practice has also been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. This could be because it forces you to focus on your breathing, which lowers your heart rate and encourages you to be present in the here and now.
Get handy by refinishing furniture
Especially if you’ve had your furniture for decades, it’s likely that there are scuff marks along the surface, faded paint, or wobbly limbs. Instead of throwing them away, breathe new life into them by refinishing them. This is a great activity for those who have a workspace or garage to work in.
In working with your hands, you are tapping into both your creative side and your problem-solving side, which is great for your cognitive health. If you’ve never been much of a handy person, start out with simple tasks like painting a table or switching out door knobs. If you’re confused, don’t give up. You can easily find tutorials online.
Start sewing
Crafts like needlepoint and embroidery are popular among seniors for good reason. These activities promote hand-eye coordination as well as creativity. However, the problem with these crafts is that you have limited space to display them. Unless you regularly alternate what you have out, these crafts end up tucked away in a drawer.
Tap into another side of this craft by sewing or knitting your own clothes. When you complete your craft, you don’t have something to display—you have something to wear! Don’t overwhelm yourself with a complex pair of pants or a sweater on your first try, however. Begin with a simple skirt, scarf, or knit cap pattern.
Settle into life at home with an at-home caregiver
Aging in place is an exciting opportunity for many seniors—but oftentimes, it can’t be done alone. If you need help with running errands, light housekeeping, personal care, or any other non-medical activity of daily living, consider the help of an at-home caregiver.
These professionals are trained in the variety of home care services you need to live healthfully and happily in the comfort of your home. For more information, give us a call at (623) 526-6367. We would love to speak with you about how a caregiver can help.
