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Daily Activities for the Elderly

Life after retirement doesn't necessarily have to mean languishing through days of inactivity and boredom. Plenty of elderly people live full and satisfying lives by engaging actively in activities such as volunteering, taking classes and attending arts programs. Getting out and enjoying time with friends, family members and strangers can invigorate the elderly and give them new things to anticipate and share with others.

  1. Volunteering Their Time

    • For senior citizens, volunteering provides an excellent opportunity to help the community, make new friends, and develop interests. Some evidence suggests that volunteering can also help the elderly stay sharp by reducing cognitive decline. In order to make the most of volunteering, the elderly should consider their interests, experience and skills. Retired teachers or people with special knowledge could serve as tutors or people interested in books or art could consider volunteering at a library or museum. Your local religious community may also have volunteer opportunities. In many organizations, particularly those with budget constraints, volunteers play a vital role. Seniors looking for some ideas can consult the RSVP volunteer network, a government organization dedicated to helping seniors locate volunteer opportunities in their community.

    Learn Something New

    • Senior citizens can choose to enroll in educational classes to rekindle old interests or develop new ones. Beyond the intellectual benefits of keeping one's mind sharp and countering the effects of memory loss, classes provide an excellent environment for older adults to get out and socialize with like-minded people. Local colleges, cultural institutions and community centers such as libraries often offer a variety of courses. Examples of possible educational pursuits include taking art classes for painting or drawing, enrolling in music lessons or learning a new language. In addition to attending classes, Internet-savvy seniors can enjoy learning more about the web.

    Enjoying Arts and Culture

    • Aging doesn't have to diminish one's appreciation for beauty and entertainment. Elderly people often attend plays and visit museums for a chance to go out with others and experience cultural enrichment. Most cultural institutions, such as theaters and museums, offer special discounts for senior citizens. Some possible cultural activities for seniors include taking guided museum tours with a group, attending a play or concert, or going to see a matinee film. At the Metropolitan Museum of Art, for example, museum curators and scholars regularly give talks that focus on particular collections or exhibitions. For more ideas, contact a local cultural institution in your area and request a newsletter or calendar detailing upcoming programs and events.

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