Thanks to breakthroughs in medicine and nutrition in recent years, we are living longer than ever before. But this increase in life expectancy also brings an increase in the number of diseases, injuries and impairments that affect older adults. With this in mind, we at the Salem Visiting Angels office have created this series of articles to keep our older population and their families informed and to offer some practical advice for meeting the challenges faced by seniors and those who care for them.

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Unfortunately, growing older comes with its share of side effects, with, arguably, the most notable – and often most severe – of these being limited mobility and range of motion. Many factors can contribute to loss of mobility and motion, including injury, stroke paralysis, and arthritis, but often the result is the same – those activities which once brought the person joy and a sense of purpose are no longer possible.

However, aging doesn’t have to be boring. Older adults can still find fun and meaning – either by taking up new pursuits or rekindling old passions – even if their bodies no longer function the way they once did.

Many seniors find taking up new hobbies or reconnecting with old ones is a great way to keep their minds active and helps them set goals. Many hobbies are not affected by mobility issues, and accommodations can be found for others. Many older adults enjoy baking, crocheting or knitting, drawing and painting, gardening or birdwatching. Some even take on challenging new hobbies, like learning a new language or learning to play an instrument.

Research shows that active learning is beneficial to keeping the mind sharp and reducing boredom. Some people find that their golden years are the perfect time to take up a pursuit, like writing or photography, that they’ve always dreamed of doing but never had the time. Many find joy and purpose in discovering their creative side. Creative activities like scrapbooking and creating family photo albums can be turned into projects that include grandchildren or other family members.

Creative pursuits have been shown to help people battling negative emotions, as well as fight the effects of anxiety and stress, which can have a positive effect on overall health and wellbeing.

Sometimes, there’s nothing better than getting lost in a good book. Not only does reading allow one to escape to another world or to learn something new, but it has other benefits as well. The reader’s brain is kept active, improving cognitive function and memory and often reducing stress. Even if the physical act of reading becomes too difficult for older eyes, there are still ways to gain those benefits, such as listening to audiobooks or using an electronic reader.

However, books aren’t for everyone, and many older adults find entertainment in puzzles and other games, which are another great way to keep the mind engaged. Many seniors find countless hours of enjoyment working jigsaw puzzles, crosswords or word searches, and card games can be played alone, such as Solitaire, or with others, such as Gin Rummy, Canasta, Euchre and even Go Fish. Older adults who don’t play cards can keep their minds busy trying to outwit their opponents at board games.

Another fun way to pass the time for older adults is watching television and movies. While no one would argue that watching TV or a computer screen all day is a healthy activity, many seniors find enjoyment in rewatching an old movie that may have particular meaning to them. And more than just serving as a conduit for mindless entertainment, television can be used as a learning tool. Many seniors are broadening their horizons watching documentaries and travel shows, while others are sharpening their skills through programs such as cooking shows. Still others may turn to listening to music to pass the time, while reducing stress and anxiety.

Many seniors crave a more active lifestyle, and for those who are able, exercise can be an engaging, healthy way to pass the time. The benefits of exercise to the body and mind go without saying. Not only does regular physical activity keep the muscles strong and the joints limber, but exercise also reduces stress, anxiety and depression.

Even those seniors who may think exercise is not for them due to their physical limitations can still benefit from the effects of physical activity. Many senior facilities and community centers offer exercise programs for older adults which include the use of chairs. Some people use the chairs for balance and stability, while others exercise while seated. There are even yoga routines that can be performed in a chair, eliminating the risks caused by getting up and down from a mat on the floor.

Walking outdoors is another popular form of exercise for older adults. Relaxing outside reduces stress levels and improves the mood for people of all ages. While some may not be physically able to visit the park or take a stroll through their neighborhood, sitting on the front porch or enjoying the fresh air and scenery from an open window can often have the same effect.

Of course, it goes without saying that one of the most popular ways of passing the time for older adults is to spend it with friends. There are few people who don’t enjoy the company of friends and family, especially in their later years, and almost every one of those pursuits already discussed can be turned into a group activity.

There are classes for art, music and exercise, where older adults can share their successes with others who have similar interests, and many senior communities host book clubs and card clubs that allow their residents to share their passions with others. Older adults can attend lectures and concerts at local college campuses or civic centers, and often these outings are more enjoyable with friends.

No matter their age or level of mobility, every older adult can find some way to keep active and engaged. Whether it’s walking through the park with friends, rekindling the passion for an old hobby, or undertaking a challenging new learning experience, growing older doesn’t have to mean boredom or isolation.

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Information provided by Visiting Angels, America’s choice in homecare. Visiting Angels’ non-medical homecare services allow people to continue enjoying the independence of their daily routines and familiar surroundings. To set up an appointment for a free in-home consultation, call 330-332-1203.