We’ve all been there: You have something special planned with your loved one, such as a nice walk in a scenic area, and the weather forces you to stay inside. But you still want to spend some quality time with them, so what should you do? Let’s explore some fun indoor activities seniors and caregivers can do when staying inside is a must.
Top Indoor Activities for Seniors:
1. Board and Card Games
There are several benefits of playing board and card games. Mostly, they also help those playing games stay mentally sharp.
Rummage through a closet and see what board games are available. You’ll probably find Monopoly — it has been popular for decades. Or perhaps you might find checkers, Yahtzee, or Scrabble.
Or, if you are you looking for a new board game to play with your loved one, there are plenty of board game websites that will help you research available options! For example, does your loved one enjoy the great outdoors? There are board games about national parks!
Card games are also always popular. Check out this list of card games for seniors that only require standard playing cards.
2. Video Games
Video games can improve cognitive function and stimulate hearing, vision, and touch. They force the person playing the game to quickly switch between tasks, boosting mental flexibility. AARP provides a page of video games that seniors and caregivers can enjoy together.
3. Hobbies, Crafts, and Skills
Cooking and dining are great bonding activities to share with a senior loved one. You may get to see how Mom, who has never written a recipe down, fixes her wonderful vegetable soup! You could also discover a new recipe to try together.
Doing arts and crafts (e.g., sewing, scrapbooking, painting, drawing), playing a musical instrument, or organizing collections can also occupy the mind and body.
4. Games and Puzzles
Look for a jigsaw puzzle to put together. Depending on the size and number of pieces, jigsaw puzzles can be quite challenging and time-consuming. In addition, Sudoku, word searches, and crossword puzzles are both challenging and extremely affordable.
5. Exercise
Being indoors for long periods of time can result in a lack of physical activity for both caregivers and seniors. Senior-friendly exercises include balance, chair, core, cardio, low-impact, and strength exercises.
Caregivers can perform the exercises alongside the senior. However, it is advisable to consult with your loved one’s physician before starting an exercise program. The idea is to promote movement, not cause pain. Do not have your loved one perform any exercises that are too strenuous.
6. Movies, Shows, and Books
There are several online sources for TV shows and movies, such as the Internet Archive. This site is a nonprofit library of old movies, TV shows, and vintage radio programs.
You could also start an audiobook with your loved one and listen to it together, then discuss the twists and turns in the story. There are several websites where you can find a library of audiobooks that includes everything from novels to nonfiction.
The added benefit of engaging in movies, shows, and books with your loved one is the discussions that can arise after watching or reading. It’s a unique opportunity to learn more about your loved one and bond through things you both enjoy.
7. Memories and Conversations
Take the time to learn more about your loved one, your family, and even yourself. A photo album is a great conversation starter, allowing you to reminisce about old memories while also making new ones.
To learn about other activities available to you and your loved one within Bethesda’s senior living communities, check out our communities page.
This blog was originally written on April 9th, 2020 and has been updated since.
