It’s a busy workday for you when you get a call from your dad. As a new retiree, his phone calls have increased, and you can tell he’s struggling on ways to fill the days. While he had a busy career, he spoke about what he would do with his retirement, but now that the time has arrived – he’s hesitating. Even with your encouragement, he’s spending more time indoors, and you worry about the impact on his mental health.
Trying a new experience, especially alone, can make our parents feel vulnerable and nervous. If you are struggling with suggestions, this list will likely have one or three hobby ideas they’ll enjoy! Read our list of hobby ideas, and help your parents discover their next favorite pastime.
Is Having A Hobby Important?
You might not realize the impact of retirement mentally and socially on your relatives. Their lives were previously defined with structure and professional accomplishments. When they retire, it can be a new realization that they don’t know what to do or how they contribute to society. A hobby is an excellent excuse for fresh air and also keeps them mentally sharp.
Having a hobby doesn’t have to be restricted to solo activities, and suggesting a new activity can also connect your parents with new connections in their community. Your aging relatives might have trouble figuring out where to start, but you can use this helpful list of suggestions to help narrow down their options.
Brain Station Hobby Ideas
These hobby ideas will focus on working out your elderly relatives’ brains. If they prefer an intellectual activity, these hobby ideas are a great fit.
Crosswords, Puzzles & Sudoku
A classic addition to any Sunday morning, crosswords and sudoku let our cognitive abilities shine. If your parents have already enjoyed this hobby, encourage them to challenge themselves with a new daily activity.
Book Club
This intellectually stimulating hobby also introduces new friends or is an easy way for your parents to stay in touch with their relationships. They can read new genres and have a chance to discuss their thoughts with a designated space.
Online Learning
With extra free time taking an online course or going back to school offers your parents a chance to explore. Unlike previous learning experiences, there is no pressure to complete this. With a new surge of online platforms, your parents will have endless options.
Creative Hobby Ideas
A creative hobby will give your parents an outlet for emotions. They might not have realized the beneficial impact of self-expression while working a corporate job. They may just surprise themselves with a hidden talent.
Local Community Initiatives
An excellent place to start is your local community center. Find out if they offer different programs weekly or monthly, and your relatives can try out a few before committing. Community centers can offer classes ranging from language exchange to pottery. Find out which opportunities are available in your backyard.
Photography
This outlet will let them capture the world through their eyes and share it with family and friends. This hobby can become expensive, but starting with a modest budget for a quality camera can get them started to see if they enjoy it and want to pursue it further.
Learn A New Instrument
Why not learn a new instrument with the free time available? A study has recently revealed the cognitive benefits of learning a musical instrument including, increasing short-term memory and overall cognitive abilities.
Physical Hobby Ideas
If the main thing your parents miss from their career is the hustle and bustle, then a physical hobby idea might be a better fit. These ideas all focus on maintaining an active lifestyle and range from social to independent.
Walking Groups
Many neighborhoods have a local power walking chapter or groups that will meet for regular walks. With a little bit of research, you could find your local chapter and have your parent power walking through the week in no time.
Cycling
While this new hobby does require investing in a bicycle, cycling has proven to improve balance and cardiovascular health.
Volunteer Dog Walker
This last hobby idea also lets your parents have a furry friend for a couple of hours a day. Through local animal shelters, your elderly relatives can donate their time and get physical activity.
The 12 Oaks Approach
The family of 12 Oaks Managed Communities is looking for new hobby ideas our residents can enjoy. We currently offer a variety of physical activities and even virtual bird watching. We believe each resident in one of our communities has unique interests. Our team is driven to support their passions to the best of our abilities.
The golden years don’t have to be a time of boredom or complacency. There is plenty of meaningful life left to live and within our communities, your family member can enjoy a thriving and vibrant lifestyle.
If you have questions about hobby ideas, connect with us and learn more.
At 12 Oaks, our team of caring professionals is dedicated to keeping residents safe, engaged, and connected to their families and friends while still leading fulfilling lives. 12 Oaks community is an ideal place to enjoy the encore season of life.
For questions or to book a scheduled personalized tour, don’t hesitate to contact us.
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