As humans, we are always seeking to better ourselves and improve our quality of life. Whether it be through curating strong friendships, getting involved with our community, becoming more active or learning something new, there are many endeavors that we can pursue, big and small, which can positively impact our lives. And while sometimes it may feel difficult to make changes to our everyday routines, especially as we age, making even the smallest change can have a big impact. Here are some tips on how to improve quality of life for seniors.
1. Practice Regular Social Interaction
People of all ages benefit from regular social interaction. Seniors — in particular, those who live alone — may experience longer periods of isolation which can have an effect on overall health. If you live alone, regular visits and calls with friends or family are a great idea and can counteract feelings of isolation.
Another great way to increase social interaction is to consider a senior living community where residents have ample opportunities to form deep connections with others. Senior living communities often plan group activities so that residents can get involved and make friends.
Related: 4 Health Benefits Of A Great Social Life For Seniors
2. Stay Connected With Family And Friends
Whether it’s meeting new people or connecting with old friends and family members, it’s important to nurture personal relationships. We all require strong connections to lead happy and healthy lives. Scheduling regular visits and outings can be very beneficial. Can’t meet in person? Plan a virtual meeting and connect online from the safety of your home.
Another great way to stay connected is to write and send letters. For those looking to make new friends, joining a group such as a book club (online or in-person) is a great way to meet like-minded people. Making an effort to spend more time with your family and friends can do wonders for health and quality of life for seniors.
3. Invest Time In Hobbies
To bond with a friend, or to simply enjoy peaceful time on your own, try picking up a hobby. Find a fun pastime that can keep you both happy and healthy. This can give you the opportunity to connect with others who enjoy the same activity or provide joy in those moments alone. Here is a list of some great hobbies to explore:
- Knitting
- Painting
- Writing
- Fitness (walking, sports, etc.)
- Cooking
- Reading
- Puzzles
In a senior living space, you can invest your time in hobbies, rather than keeping up with maintenance or cooking if you choose not to. Senior living communities can provide a maintenance-free lifestyle that will allow you to put your effort and time elsewhere (like doing something you enjoy!).
Related: Five Types of Hobbies For After Retirement
4. Continue Or Renew Physical Activities
Keeping active is instrumental to preserving and improving overall health, especially as we age. Regular physical activity has been linked to many health benefits, including stroke and heart disease prevention. There are many ways to remain active; to start, pick activities that best fit your abilities and interests. Getting outdoors for a walk or taking a yoga class are great examples of how to stay more active.
Related: Staying Active While Having Fun
5. Engage In Mental Health Activities
Exercising our minds is just as important as exercising our bodies. Invest time in and prioritize mental activity by challenging yourself and taking part in fun brain games. Some examples include:
- Trivia
- Crossword puzzles
- Sudoku
Brain games are good for overall health and help improve cognitive functions. Other mentally stimulating activities can include reading, jigsaw puzzles, cooking or writing.
All of these suggestions can be great places to start when it comes to improving the quality of your life. A final tip: Consider discussing new habits with a doctor that will encourage these positive outcomes and offer ideas for other activities you might enjoy.
Discover Vibrant Social Communities At Independence Village
At Independence Village, we offer personalized solutions to those wondering how to improve the quality of life for seniors. Learn more about the benefits of independent living here.
