Taking Up a New Hobby in 2023: How to Get Started
"New year, new me" is a phrase commonly heard during the days leading up to and following the start of each new year. People make resolutions, embark on fitness routines, try new foods or activities, and just generally attempt to improve themselves and their lives in some way. One common method for senior citizens to do this is by taking up a new hobby.
When seniors have activities to look forward to and hobbies that get their brain working and bodies moving, they are making positive choices for their health. In fact, hobbies are great for passing the time. They are also great for improving the mental and physical well-being of seniors.
Are you a senior taking up a new hobby? Use the freshness of a brand-new year as your incentive to try it out. It's never too late to learn something new and, who knows, you may even stumble across a new passion in life!
Find a Class
Many craft stores host classes where seniors can participate virtually or in-person to learn about different ways to use their creativity. Michaels has free online courses, smaller-size courses for a small fee, in-person classes, and in-store events to learn a multitude of crafting styles and techniques. Joann Fabrics also has low-cost and free online courses available.
Additionally, local park districts, community centers, and libraries also offer classes for other areas of interest. These can include water aerobics, bird watching, novel writing, and martial arts. These classes and activities often run for a set amount of time on a regular schedule. This can help seniors plan the rest of their day around their new hobby.
Watch Videos
Streaming services like YouTube and Instagram have a seemingly endless amount of content creators. These content creators gift the world with free insight into their favored crafts and hobbies. By watching these videos, seniors can sample many different possible areas of interest without the commitment of signing up for classes or spending money on supplies, until they have decided that they want to try it for themselves.
If there is an activity that seniors are interested in learning about, chances are great that they will find at least one video to help them along their journey.
Check Out Books
Local libraries may be less popular than they once were. However, inside the walls of each library lies a wealth of information waiting for someone to come and check. If your library does not have any books about your interest, it may be possible to get a book from a partner library on loan for you to check out. Additionally, with a library card comes access to online libraries with even more books available. However, if having a tangible copy in hand is more your style, head to your local library and see what new activities you can explore.
Look for Meet-Ups
Local or semi-local groups may already exist in a senior's area for the interest that they choose. A quick internet search may show them some clubs or groups that meet and are welcoming newcomers to explore their beloved activity with them.
Websites like Meetup offers a way to search by interest and location. This way, seniors can decide what group best suits their needs. Seniors can also take it a step further and create one, and invite their friends to join.
Gather Supplies
If a senior has already decided what avenue to pursue in 2023, the next step is to gather supplies. Arts and crafts stores often have sales and coupons available. Second-hand stores also often collect items from others who have given up old hobbies. Seniors may be able to find barely used or even brand-new supplies for their new venture.
An additional option is to ask to borrow from a friend. This way, the only true commitment seniors are making towards a possible new hobby is their time. If it turns out that the activity is not right for them, then they have not lost anything financially.
Keep Seniors Safe
No matter what direction the new year has for a senior, make sure to choose activities that are safe. Taking up a new hobby can be a financial drain, so make sure to start small and invest over time. A similar mindset is required for activities that involve physical movement. Start small and slow so a senior's body doesn't burn out before their passion can grow.
Are you worried about the safety of any hobbies that your senior loved ones are interested in? Senior Helpers Greenwood and South Indianapolis has services available to put your mind at ease. We offer in-home senior care and would be happy to assist you with transportation and participation in new hobbies this new year.
If you are in the Indianapolis, Greenwood, Columbus, Martinsville, Franklin, or Marion County areas, contact us today. We look forward to helping you!