Ways for Seniors to Stay Busy When Isolated

Social distancing and self-imposed quarantine are necessary measures many are taking to help prevent the further spread of COVID-19. When staying inside, it’s important to continue daily activities to keep the mind and body healthy. To help senior members of your family feel their best, encourage them to participate in the following activities. 

Fun Strategies to Prevent Social Isolation

Playing Games 

Games and puzzles help seniors stay engaged and mentally stimulated indoors. If your loved one enjoys puzzles, you can have one delivered to their home as a gift. There are puzzles and games available for a wide range of interests and abilities. For example, some puzzles contain thousands of pieces, while others have few and larger pieces for those with reduced vision and dexterity. There are also a lot of games available online at AARP Games or Pogo. 

Making Crafts

Knitting, crocheting, and sewing are good ways to keep active. Making something is incredibly rewarding, and these skills are in-demand right now. Organizations like Little Hats Big Hearts and Project Linus accept donations of knitted hats, blankets, shawls, and more. Many local hospitals are also accepting donations of cloth masks. If your older loved ones already have an interest in these kinds of crafts, consider encouraging them to help others with their unique talents. 

Listening to Informative Content

While staying up to date on the news is important, it’s not the only thing people should be listening to. Listening to pandemic news too much can cause stress and anxiety. You can encourage older family members to stay tuned to fun, informative news shows or podcasts like NPR, This American Life, Fresh Air, Radiolab, Hardcore History, and more. 

Fitness

Staying active through exercise improves mood and promotes good health. There are a lot of not too strenuous exercises to try at home to help seniors remain active. The NIH has a playlist of workout videos for seniors available online. While being inside is encouraged, older loved ones can still garden or go for walks around the neighborhood as long as they are maintaining social distancing. 

Virtual Tours

Just because most museums and parks are closed doesn’t mean you can’t still see them. Many locations are offering virtual tours. If your older loved one enjoys works of art or history, the British Museum is offering an online experience. The National Park Service Webcams also provides an eye-opening view of some of the most notable natural North American landmarks. 

Preventing Senior Isolation During Social Distancing

There are a lot of ways to stay active while practicing social distancing. Finding activities that help keep older family members busy and engaged can ensure their overall wellbeing. If you are worried about your loved one staying active but are unable to visit them directly due to social distancing, there are services that can help.

Professional home care services can assist your loved one and provide companionship, even while practicing social distancing. Professional caregivers at Accessible Home Health Care follow CDC guidelines to provide home care services that range from just visiting to offering medical assistance. If you’re interested in finding out how home care services can help prevent isolation and keep your loved one active, talk to us.