7 Engaging Recreational Therapy Activities for Older Adults To Do At Home

The practical, holistic approach of recreational therapy is commonly used in skilled nursing facilities and home or community-based care settings. It can encompass a wide range of activities that can always be modified to account for differences in interests, lifestyles, and mobility requirements. February is International Recreational Therapy Month, and though the COVID-19 pandemic continues to lead to more time indoors and greater isolation, the benefits of recreational activities can still be achieved from the comfort and safety of your own home. Below are eight examples of engaging recreational therapy activities that offer numerous benefits to support the health and well-being of older adults.

1. Animal Therapy

For seniors at a point in their lives where they feel especially lonely or have trouble bonding with others, animal therapy can be extremely helpful. There’s a reason why animals, especially dogs and cats, are found in so many homes across the world and throughout history. Developing a relationship with a pet is a universally rewarding experience. Simply spending time with animals can help reduce depression and decrease stress.

2. Video Games

Video games are an easy and engaging way to unwind. Aside from being a fun recreational activity, they provide opportunities for more social interaction and help to improve focus. For older adults, game systems that operate with an interactive remote control, such as the Nintendo Wii, are a good way to promote movement. With thousands of games available across different systems, this might be worth looking into as a therapeutic activity for older adults who want to have more fun at home.

3. Brain Teasers

Crossword puzzles, riddles, logic puzzles, and other activities that challenge the mind are a great recreational activity for older adults. Regularly engaging with brain teasers can help reduce the cognitive decline the occurs in some people as they age, promoting strong attention, memory, visual and spatial processing, and other skills.

4. Listening to Music

Listening to music is perhaps one of the easiest and best ways to reduce stress. For older adults, music serves as a reminder of past experiences that helps with memory recall. Specific types of formal music therapy are available, but organizing more informal, virtual get togethers to enjoy or discuss music during COVID-19 is another way to incorporate this hobby as a recreational activity.

5. Art Therapy

Art therapy can be extremely beneficial for older adults who enjoy expressing themselves creatively. A regular schedule for time dedicated to artistic pursuits, such as painting, drawing, sculpting, or singing, is a fulfilling way to bring people together. There are nearly limitless options when it comes to this category of recreational therapy, so it’s worthwhile to explore artistic endeavors for every older adult to enjoy.

6. Cooking & Baking

Such an essential activity as cooking might be easily overlooked as a form of therapy, but it’s another rewarding recreational activity that can help older adults stay active while engaging all five senses. Older adults have developed unique tastes over time, and might enjoy sharing their skills with others. Virtual cooking and baking groups make this an ideal activity for staying socially engaged even at a distance. Older adults might enjoy swapping recipes to share their favorite family dishes, or participating in virtual cooking workshops to learn new skills.

7. Time Outdoors

This article may focus things to do at home, but we encourage you to get some fresh air whenever it’s safe to do so. A hike or even a short walk boosts energy levels while improving muscle strength and balance. Nothing can compare to the restorative power of time spent enjoying nature. Older adults who are able can benefit from swimming, hiking, biking, camping, and other activities in natural places. With any number of options to choose from depending on your location, the outdoors can be accessible for any senior. Just be sure to follow CDC guidelines when interacting with anyone outside of your household.   February is the time to raise awareness for recreational activities that are more than just hobbies—they’re one of the best forms of therapy for older adults and others with disabling conditions. Recreational therapy promotes physical movement and helps to develop social and cognitive skills while creating more meaningful experiences for the participant. It’s an added benefit that, despite limited opportunities for social engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic, many activities can be modified for virtual participation. This month is an excellent time to help an aged loved one get more involved with an activity that excites them.