Forget the stereotypes about seniors being stuck in their ways – today’s older Americans are shattering expectations and embracing new adventures. In fact, a recent study found that having hobbies is linked to lower depression levels among older people.1
So be ready to be inspired by these 15 engaging activities that prove age is just a number.
1. Take a Hike
Hiking is a great low-impact way to build strength, improve balance, and boost your mood. Many seniors even report feeling more connected to their hiking companions. Just be sure to choose trails that match your experience level, wear proper footwear, and pack plenty of water and snacks.
2. Get Your Groove On
Ballroom, salsa, line dancing – take your pick! Dancing is a fun social activity that gets you moving. As a bonus, one study found that dancing can help prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms. So grab a partner and hit the dance floor.
3. Become a Bookworm
Join a book club to engage in lively discussions, make new friends, and keep your mind sharp. Reading has been shown to improve memory and reduce stress. And with so many genres to choose from, you’re sure to find a page-turner.
4. Get Crafty
From painting to jewelry making to woodworking, arts and crafts offer endless ways to express your creativity. Working on craft projects can improve hand-eye coordination and provide a sense of accomplishment. Plus, it’s a relaxing way to pass the time.
5. Embrace Your Inner Chef
Whip up something tasty with friends, swap family recipes, or take a healthy cooking class. Cooking and baking are great for socializing and can inspire you to eat more nutritious meals. And the best part? You get to enjoy the delicious results of your efforts!
6. Make a Splash
Swimming is one of the best exercises for seniors – it’s easy on the joints, boosts cardiovascular health, and is a refreshing way to cool off. Many pools offer senior-friendly classes like aqua aerobics. So dive on in!
7. Say “Om”
Yoga can improve flexibility, balance, and mental well-being. Many yoga poses can be adapted for different abilities, and some centers offer chair yoga for those with limited mobility. Namaste, indeed.
8. Get Snap Happy
Photography encourages you to explore the outdoors and capture the beauty around you. With digital cameras and smartphones, it’s easier than ever to get started. You could even join a photography club to swap tips and make new shutterbug friends.
9. Pedal Your Way to Fun
Cycling is a heart-healthy way to explore your surroundings. Stick to dedicated bike paths for a safer ride. Make it a social outing by joining a seniors’ cycling group. Just don’t forget your helmet!
10. Play Around
Board games, cards, puzzles – oh my! Playing games is a fun way to engage your brain and enjoy friendly competition. Host a weekly game night with friends and break out the snacks. Loser has to make the popcorn next time!
11. Serve Your Community
Volunteering is a fulfilling way to give back and meet like-minded people. Opportunities abound, from tutoring kids to assisting at an animal shelter. Knowing you’re making a difference is a powerful mood booster.
12. Get Your Hands Dirty
Gardening offers a bounty of benefits: fresh air, physical activity, and the satisfaction of watching your plants grow. If you don’t have a yard, try container gardening or join a community garden. You’ll be enjoying fresh veggies and flowers in no time.
13. Become a Music Maker
Learning to play an instrument can improve cognitive function and provide a sense of accomplishment. It’s never too late to tickle the ivories or strum a guitar. Look for beginner classes geared toward seniors.
14. Take Center Stage
Acting classes can boost confidence and creativity. Look for a senior theatre group in your area, or gather some friends and start your own. You may discover a hidden talent for the spotlight!
15. Learn the Lingo
Studies show that learning a new language can delay the onset of Alzheimer’s. Download an app like Duolingo or take a class to start parlez-vous-ing français. Becoming multilingual is good for the brain and handy for traveling.
Embrace Your Ageless Spirit & Start Living Your Best Life
So there you have it – 15 exciting hobbies to keep you active, engaged, and having fun in your 60s and beyond.
Remember, you’re never too old to try something new. As the saying goes, “Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter!”
Source:
1. https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2023/sep/hobbies-linked-lower-depression-levels-among-older-people
Read Next:
Are You Eating Plastic? 8 Common Foods That May Contain It
9 Reasons People Choose Not to Drink: The Sober Truth
Tobacco Alternative Expected To Make Sweden Smoke-Free
Discovery In Brain Research Brings New Hope for Tinnitus Cure
How Fasting Changes Your Testosterone & IGF1
Busted: 12 Health Myths that Need to Be Put to Rest
Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.
