Ms. Velda was 67 years old when she downsized the first time. Yes, she was smart enough and brave enough to downsize twice! It is important to realize the “right-
After spending a lifetime working and providing for others, retirement provides the opportunity to spend time doing things that are enjoyable and fun. These activities may also be helpful in keeping joy and purpose in your parents’ lives while maintaining their mental and physical abilities. The possibilities for activities and fun are endless, so you may want to start with your personal interests, such as hobbies and volunteering. Here are additional suggestions to consider for having more fun....
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3. Gardening
Spending time outdoors as long as the weather is good provides an opportunity for fresh air and sunshine. You may want to grow flowers or vegetables. A flower garden will allow you to keep fresh flowers inside and outside for your enjoyment. You can surprise friends and family on special occasions with original bouquets. A vegetable garden will supply you with the best veggies for your own meals and bring tasty treats to any meal. You may also enjoy teaching your friends and loved ones some unique tips for helping plants grow better or produce a larger crop.
4. Active Games and Sports
There are many games and sports for seniors that provide enjoyment and physical activity. Games and sports provide a little competition and an opportunity to achieve personal goals. There are several sports to consider for your parents’ participation. Get started with some of these sports:
5. Parties
Socializing is an easy way to have fun because often you are engaging in celebrations with people you know and love. It feels good to plan an event. Whether you are enjoying something different or reliving a favorite memory, you get to remember important events and take time to celebrate life. You may want to use these themes to plan future events and parties:
6. Quick Excursions
A quick visit to a local attraction may provide the “re-
7. Spending Time Together
Often our parents would like to just simply spend time with us. They always have a story to tell that leads to another story or an event from their past. The opportunity to be present and to listen is really all they want from us. The time we spend with family not only provides more memories but also gives us more information about our parents.
8. Dancing
Dancing is a fantastic way to have fun and improve your health. We have worked with many seniors who enjoy dancing and the health benefits associated with it. Dancing increases muscular strength, endurance and motor fitness. It may also increase aerobic fitness as well as improving muscle tone. Learning new dances may help you laugh at yourself as you attempt to learn something new.
Make Fun a Priority
There are so many opportunities to share enjoyable activities with your parents. Be intentional and take time to have some fun. Whether you spend an afternoon listening to stories, creating a holiday card or taking a quick trip to a local festival, the fun will provide memories for years to come. Enjoy your time with your parents, no matter which activities you choose.
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2. Crafts
Remember the crafts you enjoyed as a child? You’re never to old to be artistic or have fun expressing your creativity with paints, colored pencils, popsicle sticks and construction paper. It’s wonderful to create something new that you can display or give as a gift to a loved one or friend. Let your imagination come alive by starting with something easy such as an intriguing collage or watercolor. You can create a unique note card or work of art to share with someone special. Enjoy some of these activities:
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After spending a lifetime working and providing for others, retirement provides the opportunity to spend time doing things that are enjoyable and fun. These activities may also be helpful in keeping joy and purpose in your parents’ lives while maintaining their mental and physical abilities. The possibilities for activities and fun are endless, so you may want to start with your personal interests, such as hobbies and volunteering. Here are additional suggestions to consider for having more fun:
1. Board Games and Cards
Whether you play games you’ve played for years or explore new ones, this has the potential to provide hours of fun for family members of all ages. Invite your children, grandchildren and friends to join in and also create a friendly competition and sense of pride. The special fun memories will always be with you. Traditional games also provide the opportunity to improve mental sharpness along with eye-