Gone are the days when getting older meant choosing between bingo and card games to pass the time. Many seniors today are more socially, recreationally, and physically active than ever. Whether living in their own home or assisted living, today’s seniors are ready to pursue meaningful activities that offer purpose, direction, and health benefits. 

Finding a hobby you love after focusing on work or raising a family for many decades can be daunting. If you need a little inspiration in retirement, here are seven of our favorites!

1. 1. Gardening. Gardening has long been popular among seniors, and what’s not to love? You relax and unwind in the great outdoors, surrounded by beautiful plants and wildlife. Not only is tending to a garden, window box, or allotment a great way to stay physically active in retirement but having something to show for your efforts (e.g., fresh vegetables or beautiful flowers) can be exceptionally rewarding. Gardening is a great, meaningful hobby for introverts and extroverts alike, as it can be enjoyed socially or as a peaceful solo pursuit.
   2. Arts and Crafts. Engaging in artistic hobbies can improve everything from cognition and memory to self-esteem and spirituality. Whether you decide to take up painting, jewelry making, pottery, knitting, or something else entirely, arts and crafts can be a great way to continue learning, make friends with similar interests, and cultivate that satisfying sense of mastery you may find yourself missing in retirement.
   3. Volunteering. Many seniors find that volunteering for an organization close to their heart can fill the gap that retiring from work left in their routine. The best thing about volunteering is that it typically benefits both the cause and the volunteer. Volunteering makes us feel good about ourselves, reduces isolation, and provides a valuable sense of purpose. Depending on the activity, it may also help you stay physically active or reignite old passions and interests.
   4. Caring for Animals. The benefits of caring for animals as an aging adult are clear. Having a pet can encourage physical exercise and boost mental health by reducing loneliness and stress while offering a sense of purpose. Pet ownership may even support physical health, helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Of course, not every senior can have a pet of their own. You can still benefit from animal interaction if you have mobility issues, a chronic illness, or live in a private or assisted living community that doesn’t allow pets. You may wish to look for opportunities to volunteer at local animal shelters or organizations or visit a zoo, aquarium, or a family member with pets.
   5. Physical Exercise. Physical activity is beneficial for people of all ages. For seniors, regular exercise can improve balance, mobility, and strength to prevent falls and help prevent common physical health conditions like heart disease and osteoporosis. But the benefits of exercise go well beyond the physical. Joining an exercise class can provide a vital opportunity to socialize and connect with others. Mindful activities like yoga may also aid sleep, help reduce anxiety and keep the brain healthy, and outdoor pursuits like hiking combine the benefits of exercise with the benefits of spending time in nature. Consult your physician for advice before adopting any new exercise regime.
   6. Lectures and Classes. Learning isn’t just for the young and can be a wonderfully rewarding hobby for seniors. One of the significant aspects of retirement is having the free time to learn about new topics based on your true interests. Lifelong learning may improve cognition and reduce your risk of memory loss. Attending a lecture or joining a class is a great way to facilitate continued learning during retirement. Courses may be available at local educational venues like universities, and if you live in an assisted living community, various classes may be offered on-site.
   7. Book Clubs. Book clubs can be fabulous places to find a solid social circle while reaping the benefits of reading and learning. Reading may sharpen memory, improve cognitive function, reduce anxiety, and stress, and enhance relaxation and sleep. Joining a club to discuss your latest reads and share recommendations can provide a sense of belonging and community.

How Argent Court Helps Seniors Find Meaningful Pastimes

At Argent Court assisted living, we appreciate our residents for the unique individuals they are and strive to offer a range of activities to suit a variety of interests. We nurture our residents’ passions by helping them continue enjoying lifelong hobbies while empowering them to try new activities. We provide an activities calendar packed with seasonal, recreational, spiritual, physical, and educational activities each month.

Some examples of the activities we offer include:

• • Chair exercise classes
  • Walking groups
  • Shopping trips and other outings
  • Traditional games like dominoes and bingo
  • Worship services and Bible study
  • Garden club
  • Live music
  • Arts and crafts sessions

Call us today or use the contact form to learn more about the range of activities we offer at Argent Court Assisted Living. We will happily answer any questions or arrange a tour at your convenience so that you can see our vibrant community at its best!