7 Best Hobbies for Seniors

Relaxing without work to go back to may sound a bit scary and new, but as a matter of fact, there are many things you can do to rid yourself of any kind of boredom and become a part of a community. From individual quiet activities that can be calming to busy people-filled events, which are good for socialization, there are so many options. Let’s look at a few of the possibilities.

1. Getting a New Pet: A pet may seem like a lot of work, and it can be, but it is usually worth it due to the amazing benefits that come along with it. Whenever around your pet, there is a chemical chain reaction that occurs, which increases serotonin and lowers cortisol. A pet can also help in reducing blood pressure, stress, and cholesterol, as well as help in the fight against heart conditions and depression.
2. Gardening: Gardening is a great activity for seniors because it not only provides a relaxing atmosphere for seniors but it can also be extremely therapeutic. While you may not consider it to be a form of physical activity, it is an excellent form of light activity, which helps to stimulate mobility for seniors.
3. Visiting Friends & Family: Family and friends are an integral part of any person’s life and, because of this, they can be a huge comfort for seniors, as well as a source of fun. Creating memories during this time in your life can be something cherished forever.
4. Walking: Walking is healthy for everyone, but it can be especially helpful to seniors for a multitude of reasons. While walking is great for cardiovascular health, it provides some mental health benefits as well. It helps with maintaining independence and adding a bit of socialization to one’s daily activity.
5. Volunteering: If a senior is able, volunteering can be very beneficial to mental wellbeing, as it provides socialization. One of the other things that volunteering helps with, which differentiates it from the other hobbies on this list, is maintaining self-worth. While some people may feel less of a sense of purpose as they age, volunteering can help reverse those feelings.
6. Painting: Painting can go one of two ways. On one hand, practicing painting alone can feel as relaxing as laying idle on a beach in the warm sun of summer; on the other hand, practicing with family members or friends can be an engaging and fun social activity.
7. Golfing: Golfing, while not too taxing on the body, can have many of the same benefits as yoga, as it can help to increase flexibility and maintain endurance. Golfing with others is also, once again, another great activity for socialization and healthy competition.

New Horizons at Marlborough is the perfect place to take up a new hobby. As a premier independent living and assisted living community, our door is always open to new retirees. If you are interested in our activities at New Horizons, look at our activity calendar, or contact us today at 508-460-5000 to set up your trial program.