Moving from home to an assisted living facility can often be very stressful for the person moving and their families. You may worry whether they will have enough to do or enjoy their stay. As far as activities, you have nothing to worry about when they are at the right assisted living facility. Many facilities go out of their way to ensure the residents are engaged in activities designed around their mobility and cognitive abilities. Here are a few things your loved one may engage in.
1. Crafting
Hands-on arts and crafts activities are one of the popular activities found in an assisted living facility. Not only are these classes great ways to socialize with others while producing a tangible product, but they can also be a great way to promote motor skills.
Fine motor skills, dexterity, and hand-eye coordination may be maintained through knitting, crocheting, painting, and other arts and crafts. Some seniors enjoy scrapbooking to share and showcase their family and friends and the numerous journeys they have been on throughout their lives.
2. Brain Games
Staying mentally sharp is just as important as staying physically fit. Everyone's brain benefits from a little exercise. Even sedentary seniors often enjoy puzzles, card games, word searches, and other mentally stimulating activities. Many times, learning new skills or hobbies is another great way to stay mentally sharp. Not only will the new hobby or skills occupy their time, but they may also make new friends engaging in it.
3. Music
There are a few things more stimulating to music. It does not matter if your family member is rocking to tunes from their generation, enjoying an afternoon of jazz, gospel, or easy-listening music. Music stimulates the mind and elevates your mood.
4. Fitness
Another great way to keep the blood flowing through your body and brain is by engaging in physical fitness routines. Physical exercise is a great way to pump more oxygen into the blood and improve memory and thinking.
While your family member may not be able to engage as much as they used to, there is still plenty of physical activities they can participate in indoors and outdoors. Many assisted living places have walking programs, chair aerobics, and biking, and may go into the community to swim or participate in other water exercises.
For more information, visit a local assisted living facility and ask about their programs and services.