Top 4 Autumn Habits and Hobbies to Extend Senior Health Span
Autumn presents the comfort and predictability of seasonal traditions that relate to joyful experiences with friends and families. The decreased temperatures should not be a reason for older adults to become inactive. Hobbies and activities or autumn habits and hobbies provide new experiences and an opportunity to improve physical health and relieve stress.
The season provides the chance for several indoor and outdoor recreational activities, which enhances well-being, individual satisfaction, and a better sense of community. Here are four autumn habits and hobbies to extend seniors' healthspan.
4 Autumn Habits and Hobbies
1. Take Scenic Drives and Walks
Driving through Kentucky during fall is full of adventures due to the endless scenic spots– colorful changing leaves and rolling hills with horse fences. Caregivers can adapt activities to suit different mobility levels.
A drive to Lexington at The Old Frankfort Pike Historic and Scenic Byway has a historic tavern, rural landscapes, and plenty of horses, stables, and barns. This new environment allows for setting up better habits and a moment of reflection.
2. Enjoy Fall-themed Jigsaw Puzzles
Playing puzzles improves memory by exercising the part of the brain responsible for memory. Celebrate the season with a warm beverage and fall-themed puzzles, such as:
- Central Park Paradise - a 500-piece puzzle centered on New York's Central Park
- Wildbird Gathering - a 35-piece sequenced puzzle with color coding designed for people with Dementia and Alzheimer's
- Lighthouse Park - a beautiful lighthouse surrounded by autumn trees and the sea in this 300- piece puzzle
Jigsaw puzzles also help strengthen older adults' fingers and senses in a fun environment, boosting mood and preventing boredom.
3. Prepare for Halloween
Fall is full of activities that older adults, family, and friends can participate in, like Halloween. Engage older persons in making individual treat bags or coloring decorations to create a festive feel.
Baking, mixing, and cooking create a plate of flavorful dishes while providing a therapeutic space to boost your mood and relieve stress since the activity can activate memories. Nothing screams autumn more than apples and pumpkins, and some ideas for the treats include:
- Making baked apples with oatmeal streusel topping or soft-glazed pumpkin sugar cookies
- Asking someone with dementia to sort a mixed bag of candy into a container, making them feel included
- Preparing pumpkin pouch goodie bag
During this festival, the caregiver should be present, as the older individual may find it challenging to get in and out of the chair to pass treats.
4. Autumn Gardening
Gardening is a form of exercise able to burn around 300 calories within 30 - 40 minutes. With the mild temperature and beautiful weather, autumn is the perfect time to plant perennial plants.
Older individuals who enjoy gardening will experience feelings of reward and mental clarity. The perennial plants and flowers include
- Baptisia (False Indigo)
- Astrantia
- Lavender
- Peony
- Cauliflower
- Broccoli
- Lettuce
In addition, inspect the garden for any plant requiring special attention due to the temperature drop.
Home Care Services in Lexington
At Senior Helpers, we are committed to providing in-home care services to seniors in Georgetown, Lexington, Shelbyville, and Nicholasville. Our services range from companion services for seniors seeking assistance with daily activities to specialized care for those with chronic diseases. Contact us today to receive personalized services from the comfort of your home.