Let’s face it, just because you are older does not mean you don’t require social interaction. You know how it is; seeing the same family members every day, never going anywhere different or meeting new people. It takes the drive out of a person.
Research has shown there is a strong connection between the lack of social interaction and health, as well as the effects it may have on life satisfaction and the quality of life.
All that being said, this is the first of several posts which will explore activities geared towards enriching the lives of the the elderly people we care for … or ourselves.
- Coffee House : Get a group of family or friends together to go to a coffee house for a cup of joe. This is a great way for everyone to relax and spend a little quality time together in a calm environment. Check out the local coffee shops in your area to see if any offer music, readings or comedy shows. It could be a lot of fun for everyone!
- Attend a Play : Plays and shows are a great way to get your mind off of the everyday and on something new or exciting! All theaters will accommodate persons with handicaps, so good seating for those in wheelchairs or hard of hearing should not be a problem. Better yet, make reservations at a favorite restaurant for a pre-show dinner.
- Random Acts of Kindness : Set aside a week to practice random acts of kindness. You can all get involved dreaming up what the acts will be and do them together. This is a great family activity, but having a positive impact on someone’s life will especially bring joy to your elderly loved one.
- Sporting Event : Live near a major league training park? Are you huge fans of the local college football team? If you are sports fans at all, there are plenty of games to find about town. Sure, watching high school basketball isn’t the same as the NBA, but it could still be a great evening for your elderly one.
There are hundreds of things to do in your town; sometimes all it takes is a little imagination and a few hours to enjoy.
