Retirement is a great time to explore new interests and take advantage of extra free time. There’s no better way to do this than picking up a new hobby. Whether artistic, active, or recreational, there are plenty of types of hobbies for seniors. At Buckner Retirement Services, we help residents explore our recreational programs to find a hobby that is right for them. To learn more about our living communities and our services, call us today at 214.227.7182.
Hobbies Are Good for Mental and Physical Health
Hobbies are not just a way to pass the time. Picking up a hobby can have many physical and mental health benefits for seniors. Physically, hobbies can keep seniors active and get them out of the house, helping them avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Some seniors use their hobbies as their daily exercise. For example, some seniors participate in walking clubs or group physical activities like swimming or playing pickleball.
Mentally, hobbies for seniors can stimulate the brain and encourage social interaction, avoiding boredom and feelings of isolation. Creative hobbies can stimulate parts of the brain that aren’t normally active. Hobbies that include learning can keep the mind sharp and even slow cognitive decline.
Types of Hobbies for Seniors
There’s really no limit to what type of hobby seniors can pick up during retirement. Some seniors discover new passions and maybe even a second career through their hobbies. Most new hobbies that seniors explore fall into three categories: creative, physical, and intellectual.
Creative hobbies include arts and crafts, puzzles, or playing an instrument. Creative hobbies are a good option for seniors because most don’t require a significant upfront commitment, and many creative hobbies leave seniors with something tangible they can display or gift to others. Physical hobbies may include activities like walking clubs or a sport. Many physical hobbies also facilitate the social interaction that seniors need.
Intellectual hobbies include learning a new language, reading, or playing chess. Picking up an intellectual hobby is one of the best ways to keep the mind engaged and discover new areas of interest.
Easy Activities for Seniors to Try
Some seniors are hesitant to try new hobbies because they don’t know where to start or are worried about investing time and financial resources in something they may not choose to continue. However, trying a new hobby does not have to take a lot of effort. Seniors can find easy ways to dabble in a new activity before committing to it. Some examples of easy activities for seniors to try include:
- Painting
- Writing
- Puzzles
- Cooking
- Volunteering
- Swimming
- Gardening
Many seniors also enjoy taking online classes to learn something new and explore new interests. There are many opportunities to take online classes for free. Some community colleges also offer free or discounted courses for seniors.
How to Find the Right Hobby
Finding the right hobby can take a bit of trial and error for seniors. While some people can try a single activity and grow a passion for it, others may have to try several hobbies before finding one that sticks. The easiest way to find the right hobby is to keep trying new activities. Hobby searching is also a good time for seniors to get out of their comfort zones and try something they wouldn’t normally do.
Activities for Seniors at Buckner Retirement Services
At Buckner Retirement Services, we understand the importance of hobbies for seniors. We facilitate many activities for seniors and help them discover new passions. Residents of all abilities can explore onsite activities or take advantage of our transportation services to enjoy hobbies in their community. To learn more about the programs at Buckner Retirement Services, call us today at 214.227.7182.