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Winter Activities for Seniors

Winter can be a hard time of the year for senior citizens as the weather can get very cold and cause illness more easily than during other months of the year. Winter conditions (snow, ice) also make it more dangerous for outdoor activities. It is imperative however that seniors stay active and try to utilize the free time that they have in a productive and positive manner to encourage physical and mental well-being.

  1. Exercise

    • Exercise is very important for people of all ages throughout the year as it helps the body both physically and mentally. Seniors have a number of options in regard to exercise in the winter. Most gyms and fitness centers have special classes designed for seniors and YMCA locations with gyms often offer that same service at lower rates. If that is not an option, seniors can walk throughout their local indoor shopping malls or get involved in dance classes. Yoga is also an option that can be a positive stress relieving form of physical exercise. Seniors are advised to work with their doctors when planning fitness regimens.

    Arts and Crafts

    • Arts and crafts can be therapeutic in a number of ways. Allowing the body to relax and the mind to work is beneficial to people of every age. Seniors can take the time in the winter to make gifts for friends and family and that will help them to enjoy the holiday season more. Many community centers and community colleges offer classes specifically designed for seniors. Ceramic painting shops, galleries and art museums also often offer art classes and workshops for people of various ages. Popular crafts for seniors include painting, knitting, crocheting and working with model cars.

    Traveling

    • "Snowbirds" is the name that is commonly given to seniors that flee their home states in the winter to places that are warmer. Popular choices include California, Florida and Arizona. The desert area of Nevada (including Las Vegas) is also a popular destination choice during the winter. In many of these places outdoor adventures and activities can still occur during the winter months. Many seniors also take to the road via charter bus and riverboat to gamble in different places throughout the country. Most casinos and cities known for welcoming seniors often have special travel and accommodation packages available. Indian casinos often offer special high-stakes bingo games for senior citizens.

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